Supermarket sweep as retailers support farmers

All of the UK’s major supermarkets have now publicly expressed their concerns over the proposed changes to inheritance tax affecting farms, calling for the Government to pause and consult. 

Tesco stated that “the UK’s future food security is at stake” and urged the Government to hold off the introduction of inheritance tax for farms worth more than £1m. Asda and Morrisons have already been vocal in their support for farmers, with Sainsbury’s also now calling for the Government to listen to concerns. Marks & Spencer, Co-op, Waitrose, Lidl and Aldi have also released supportive statements. 

Responding to the news at LAMMA, the UK’s largest agricultural machinery show, National Farmers’ Union president Tom Bradshaw said: “I have never known such strength of support from all major British retailers on a single farming issue. The NFU has been talking to retailers for some weeks and it is heartening to hear their statements of support. They too want the Government to listen to farmers so they have the certainty they need to continue their role in delivering food security, with strong sustainable supply chains all the way from farm to fork.” 

Morrisons, however, has also sought a High Court injunction to prevent further protests at its sites amid what it calls a “serious threat” of further action from farmers, gamekeepers and those involved in food production.