THE ISSUE of Inheritance Tax concerns impacting local farmers is set to be discussed during Worcestershire County Council’s first meeting of 2025.
At the full council meeting on January 9, Emma Hamer from the National Farmers’ Union (NFU) will be asking the authority what is being done to address the farmers who are affected.
A motion on the subject is being introduced by Coun Adam Kent, the Cabinet Member for Economy and Skills, alongside councillors Kit Taylor, Adrian Kriss, Brandon Clayton, Matt Dormer, and Elizabeth Eyre.
The motion urges the chief executive to promptly contact the Minister of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, Steve Reed MP, to advocate a reassessment of proposed inheritance tax reforms affecting family farms.
The motion expresses deep concern over the Labour government’s recent proposal to amend inheritance tax rules, which would impose a 20 per cent levvy on agricultural assets exceeding £1million, effective from April 2026.
Proponents argue such changes threaten the sustainability of family-run farms, integral to Worcestershire’s rural economy and heritage. They warn increased tax burdens may compel farming families to liquidate land or equipment to meet tax obligations, jeopardising local employment, food security, and countryside stewardship.
The NFU has been vocal in its opposition to the proposed tax reforms.
NFU President Tom Bradshaw said: “The average return of working farm businesses is less than one per cent.
“Most would be unable to meet inheritance tax charges if Agricultural Property Relief or Business Property Relief was stripped away.”
He further emphasised such changes could undermine environmental investments and the viability of family farms.
Coun Kent’s motion calls for direct consultation with farming representatives, including the NFU and other agricultural organisations, to fully comprehend the potential impact on local farmers and rural economies.
He added the council’s stance underscored its commitment to safeguarding Worcestershire’s agricultural heritage and supporting the farming community against policies perceived as detrimental to their long-term sustainability.
Local farmers and NFU representatives are expected to be among the speakers at the meeting.
The agenda as due to be published on new year’s eve.
