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‘Don’t include Morrisons’ in public awareness day, say organisers

Philip Case 17 January 2025
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© Tim Scrivener© Tim Scrivener

Farmers across the UK are preparing to take part in a national farming awareness day on Friday 17 January to peacefully highlight their opposition to the government’s anti-farming policies.

Farmers will drive their tractors to supermarket car parks to raise further awareness about the proposed controversial inheritance tax changes, which could devastate family-run British farms.

However, organisers have made it clear that no tractors should visit Morrisons, as the supermarket has recently expressed support for British farmers in the wake of the Autumn Budget.

See also: Morrisons’ boss backs farmers in IHT battle amid protests

The national event has been organised by four of the farmers behind November’s London Farming Rally – Olly Harrison, Clive Bailye, Martin Williams and Andrew Ward.

Farmers are being encouraged to park their tractors in supermarket car parks without causing disruption.

The goal is to engage with the public, raise awareness of the difficulties farmers face, and gain more support for the cause.

Andrew Ward, a Lincolnshire arable farmer and key organiser, explained the rationale behind the supermarket gatherings.

“This is a public awareness day, not a protest,” he said.

“We are looking to engage with the public positively, explain the challenges we face, and highlight the impact of government policies on food production and farming.

“We want to make it clear that farming is vital for the environment, the countryside, and food security.” 

Staying legal

Farmers are encouraged to make small purchases – such as stationery or farm-related products – to avoid issues with red diesel use and parking restrictions in privately owned supermarket car parks.

Participants are being asked to engage with shoppers in a friendly manner, and move on after two hours.

While Morrisons has been supportive of farmers’ concerns, the organisers are distancing themselves from the supermarket and will focus on other retail chains.

“Please do not visit any Morrisons car parks,” said Mr Ward. “We want to keep this event positive and avoid any disruption to a supermarket that has shown its support.”

With supermarket visits set to take place across multiple locations, farmers are co-ordinating through WhatsApp groups to ensure smooth organisation and the largest possible turnout.

The organisers have also emphasised that Friday’s event is not connected to the recent protests organised by Farmers To Action and the #Together movement.

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