Sussex farmers hit the streets on Friday in a peaceful protest against harsh new inheritance tax plans. They warn the changes could wreck family farms and threaten local food supplies across the region.
Farmers Rally at Brighton’s Asda
A group of determined farmers gathered outside Asda in Hollingbury, Brighton, handing out letters and speaking directly to shoppers. Their message? The tax shake-up might force small farms to sell their land, slashing the amount of locally grown food on shelves.
“This isn’t just about farms, it’s about your food,” one protester said, highlighting the deep link between local agriculture and the community’s supply chain.
Tractor Convoy Tours Supermarkets from Horsham to Brighton
Meanwhile, a convoy of tractors rolled along the A24, stopping at seven supermarkets between Horsham and Brighton. At each stop, farmers delivered letters to store managers, warning about the knock-on effect of the tax hikes on family farms and food prices.
The convoy aimed to spread the word far and wide, making sure shoppers and retailers alike understood the potentially devastating impact.
Farmers Demand Government Rethink
Across Sussex and the South East, farmers share one urgent message: the proposed tax changes could slash the number of family-run farms, push the country to import more food, and drive prices up.
They’re calling on the government to protect agricultural land and support sustainable farming to keep the region’s rural economy and food supply secure.
Public Support Key to Farming’s Future
The protests were a united front, aiming to get shoppers on board and boost awareness. Farmers hope this public push will pressure policymakers to rethink and safeguard their future – along with the food we all depend on every day.