British farmers will stage a “national strike” next week, withholding meat and crops from supermarkets to protest Labour’s new inheritance tax policies.
Beginning Sunday, thousands of farmers plan to participate in the week-long strike, which includes a march in London on November 19, where over 10,000 farmers are expected to rally against the tax changes introduced by Chancellor Rachel Reeves.
The policy imposes a 20% inheritance tax on previously exempt farms valued at over £1 million, sparking concerns that it will force many farmers to sell parts of their operations, risking traditional family farm continuity. The Enough Is Enough protest group, representing striking farmers, warned of severe impacts on the industry, stating, “British farmers have simply had enough. We cannot afford to provide food to the public under these conditions.”
The strike will withhold non-perishable items, such as meat and certain crops, from supermarkets, potentially impacting food supplies. UK farms supply approximately 80% of the nation’s beef, 90% of fresh poultry, and large portions of lamb, pork, and wheat. Dairy farmers, however, are exempt from the strike due to the perishability of milk and eggs.
Tim Taylor, a strike organiser and animal feed business owner, noted the strike’s goal is to “disrupt but not decimate supermarket shelves,” aiming for public support.
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