MPs argue for postponing the inheritance tax alterations for farmers to facilitate improved policy development | Agriculture

A group of influential Members of Parliament is urging the government to postpone the controversial inheritance tax changes for farmers, citing the need for better tax policy formulation and the protection of vulnerable farmers who need more time for advice. The Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee wants the government to delay the announcement of the overhaul of agricultural property relief and business property relief until October 2026, with the changes taking effect from April 2027. These changes, announced by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, would require the payment of 20% of the value of agricultural and business property above £1m, and have caused widespread protests in the farming sector. The committee calls for more consultation on the proposals to avoid hurting small family farms and criticizes the government’s communication with farmers, calling for the opportunity to rebuild trust and confidence in the farming sector.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2025/may/16/delay-farmer-inheritance-tax-changes-to-allow-for-better-formulation-say-mps