On 24 March 2025, I proudly stood with the brave farmers of Hampshire atop Portsdown Hill, as they prepared to drive into Portsmouth in protest. Their message was clear: "Starmer the Farmer Harmer" must be held accountable for Labour’s ruthless attack on British farming — an agenda designed to crush farmers, devalue agriculture, and force the sale of their land.
A powerful convoy of 21 tractors, backed by support vehicles, gathered in defiance. I spoke with the farmers directly, listened to their anger and their fears, and pledged my full support to their cause.
At just before 11am, they set off for Portsmouth Guildhall — horns blaring, spirits unbroken — determined to defend their livelihoods and the future of British food security.
You can watch my videos and hear their stories by clicking "Read more."
But most importantly: Support our farmers. Protect our future. #NoFarmersNoFood
The farmers came from across Hampshire from as far away as the New Forest and Andover, and started arriving from 9:30am at the top of Portsdown Hill, overlooking Portsea Island.
I spoke to the farmers to understand first hand what their concerns were with the Government's new proposals to charge Inheritance Tax (IHT) on farms.
One farmer from Andover explained that their family wanted their farm to pass through their family and he showed me a newspaper cutting showing £270k of death duties were paid on their family's £490k estate.
This debt has now been paid off but he fears further debts would be incurred for future generations.
The farmers explained:
- Farmers are asset rich, but cash poor and would be forced to sell land to pay the Labour Tax leading to land not being used to feed the nation.
- The Inheritance Tax raid threatens generational continuity and risks breaking up family farms forever.
- Farming is a way of life passed down through generations and the destruction of farms puts National Food Security at risk.
- The farmers want their children to provide food for our nation.
- The farmers also said they will stand up against the Labour Government for the future of our nation (and we should all too.
- They expressed concern that VAT reclaims on some vehicles used for farming will in future no longer be allowed.
The Farmers then set off for Portsmouth to meet at the Guildhall.
Could I please ask you all to support our farmers in every way possible.
If you have a local Farm Shop, like we do on Hayling Island (in the Havant Constituency), then please visit your local farm shops and you will be surprised at the great selection of fresh local produce that you can buy.
Thank you.