Farmers plan second ‘anti-Budget’ rally in London for 19 November

Plans are being developed by a group of leading farmers to stage a parallel rally in London on the same day the NFU is holding its “mass lobbying event” in Westminster, to give more farmers a chance to voice their concerns about the recent Budget.

Anger has been growing since chancellor Rachel Reeves’ decision to restrict agricultural property relief (APR) from inheritance tax, raise employers’ national insurance contributions, increase the minimum wage, and slash direct payments to farmers in England.

See also: Farmers Weekly backs calls for Budget changes

The NFU this week confirmed its plans to hold a mass lobbying event on Tuesday 19 November, with 1,800 registered members allowed to attend three successive meetings at Church House in Westminster, followed by meetings with their individual MPs.

But frustration has been mounting in the wider industry about the limited headcount – said to be for “legal issues” – with many farmers questioning on social media why more people are not able to attend.

Alternative rally

This has prompted a group of well-known farmers – including Martin Williams from Herefordshire, Ollie Harrison from Merseyside, Clive Bailye from Staffordshire, Andrew Ward from Lincolnshire, and James Mills from Yorkshire – to create an alternative rally.

“We had a meeting with the Metropolitan Police on Thursday [7 November] and they have given us permission to hold a rally, for all the farmers who are unable to attend the NFU event,” Mr Williams told Farmers Weekly.

“This will not be in competition with the NFU’s event, but will complement it.

“It is a solution to the problem they are facing with so many more people wanting to come to London on 19 November.

“It is not political, but will be a chance for farmers to emphasise their worth to the public.

“We’re going to badge it with ‘We just want to feed you’.

“We want as many young people to be there as possible, to show that they want to be able to farm in the future and the fact they are being deprived of this.”

Food banks

As well as speeches and a chance to stage a procession, the organisers have been in touch with food banks to arrange for a massive donation by farmers to help feed people who are struggling.

“This is all about building bridges and creating trust with the public,” said Mr Williams.

“Anyone coming to the NFU event or ours, can either bring food or make a donation.”

Mr Williams said the group was still waiting for confirmation from the Met Police on the rally site, and would be posting further details on The Farming Forum website imminently.

This would also provide an opportunity for farmers to register for the event, enabling the organisers to keep the police informed.

“Get yourselves to London is our principle message,” said Mr Williams.

“It’s going to be peaceful, but it’s going to be powerful.”