Farmers Stage Tractor Convoy Protest

People turned out in force to show support for Harborough’s farmers as they staged a tractor convoy protest yesterday.

The action was to make a stand against the government’s change to inheritance tax and highlight other issues affecting the farming sector.

Crowds gathered along the route as drivers of around 50 tractors and other farm vehicles made their way from Market Harborough to Leicester, under police escort.

People cheered and clapped as the convoy passed through Market Harborough town centre:

The decision to charge inheritance tax on farms valued at over £1m has led to widespread anger and fears it will lead to higher food prices and lower production.

People supporting the farmers in Market Harborough yesterday told HFM why they were there:

People in Kibworth also turned out to show support as the convoy travelled along the A6 to Leicester.

Andy Gillespie, who farms in Thorpe Langton, organised the protest and told to HFM he and those involved were overwhelmed by the level of support from the community:

Farmers were also among those supporting the protest and spoke to HFM:

A Government spokesperson said: “Our commitment to farmers remains steadfast.

“This Government will invest £5 billion into farming over the next two years, the largest budget for sustainable food production in our country’s history.

“We are going further with reforms to boost profits for farmers by backing British produce and reforming planning rules on farms to support food production.

“Our reform to Agricultural and Business Property Relief will mean estates will pay a reduced effective inheritance tax rate of 20%, rather than standard 40%, and payments can be spread over 10 years, interest-free.”