Tractors Bring Central London to a Standstill
Central London experienced significant disruption on Wednesday, 26th November 2025, as farmers drove their tractors into the city to stage a protest on Budget day. The demonstration, which took place despite specific police restrictions, resulted in several arrests by the Metropolitan Police.
The police force had issued a clear warning beforehand, stating that anyone breaching conditions by bringing vehicles, including tractors, to the protest would be asked to leave. Refusal to comply would lead to arrests for offences under the Public Order Act.
Political Backing and Farmer Frustration
In a swift response to the arrests, the political party Reform UK announced it would pay for the legal defence of the farmers involved. Party leader Nigel Farage condemned the police action, labelling it "outrageous" and confirming that "Reform UK will provide full legal support to every farmer protesting peacefully today."
The scene outside Parliament was one of organised chaos during the morning rush hour. More than a dozen tractors were parked, their horns blaring repeatedly, bringing traffic to a standstill as police officers looked on.
The core of the farmers' anger is directed at the government's plan, outlined by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, to introduce a 20% inheritance tax on agricultural land and businesses valued at over £1 million.
Voices from the Protest
David Gunn, an arable farmer from Kent, was among the protesters. He explained that the proposed inheritance tax would "cripple the farmers, the small family farmers." He cited a combination of rising costs, poor prices for produce, and concerns over food security, stating firmly, "We don’t make any money." His message to the government was a direct challenge to "sort the pledge out," accusing them of reneging on manifesto promises and ruining the countryside.
Another protester, Tyler Carter, 18, from Peterborough, held a sign that read, "Dear London sorry … I’m here to fight for my future!" He expressed fear for his livelihood, stating, "It means my dad will be out of a job, which means I will be out of a job." When asked what he would say to the Chancellor, his response was a sharp, "How dare you?"
The protest also featured a festive yet pointed display, with one farmer dressed as Father Christmas. His tractor carried a large spruce tree and a sign listing prominent politicians on the "naughty list."
A Growing Political Flashpoint
This is not the first time farmers have taken to the streets of London over this issue. The protest mirrors a similar demonstration held in December of the previous year, where thousands gathered and tractors encircled Parliament.
The Chancellor's inheritance tax proposal has become a major political flashpoint for the agricultural sector, which is already grappling with rising costs, tough market conditions, and the increasing impacts of climate change. For many farmers, this tax represents a direct threat to their ability to pass on family businesses to the next generation, putting the UK's food security at risk.
