Farmers protest outside Oxford Farming Conference
8th January 2026
Farmers gathered outside the Oxford Farming Conference today to continue their campaign, saying the increase in the IHT threshold still does not go far enough.
Approximately 50 tractors were sounding their horns as DEFRA secretary of state Emma Reynolds was giving her speech inside the building.
Farmers are demonstrating today to, among other things, highlight a growing disconnect between the government’s words and the realities facing working farmers as well as show their disappointment with IHT.
One of the participants of the demonstration, Paloma Shepherd-Grewar, said: “The inheritance tax is Labour’s classist assault on family farms.
“Keir Starmer’s acknowledgement that farmers have refused treatment in an attempt to die before the tax is implemented demonstrates the Labour party’s contempt for the countryside, for rural life, tradition and values, and for the longevity of British farming. The recent partial U-turn is not enough.
“Labour need to change their tune unless they want to be serenaded by angry farmers and tractor air horns at Westminster for the rest of their term in office.”
A spokesperson for Farmers Take Action added: “Our government is making deals that favour imports over domestic production. Farmers and the public need fair pricing from supermarkets.”
SFI reforms announced
During her speech at the Oxford Farming Conference today, environment secretary Emma Reynolds announced reforms to the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI).
She explained that they are aimed at simplifying the scheme, levelling the playing field, and providing stable, predictable delivery.
Reynolds MP pledged that the government would focus on supporting smaller farms and those without an existing agreement to drive growth, securing a thriving future for the sector, and delivering high-quality, affordable food for British families.
The environment secretary also outlined a new £30 million Farmer Collaboration Fund to support farmer groups in growing their businesses, building partnerships and sharing best practices.
READ MORE: Oxford Farming Conference: Reforms to SFI announced
READ MORE: Farming community reacts to SFI changes
Read more farm business news.
