Jeremy Clarkson ditches London farmer protest plan after 'legal issues'

Jeremy Clarkson has ditched plans to demonstrate in London against a new tax imposed on farmers by the Government.

From April 2026, inherited agricultural assets worth more than £1 million will be liable to the inheritance tax at 20 per cent. This is half the usual rate. The assets were previously exempt from the levy.

Farmers are planning to protest against the measure on November 19 at Church House in Westminster. The National Farmers' Union (NFU) has issued a letter to its members asking those who did not register to take part to stay home, Farmer's Guide reports.

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It read: “There are legal issues, which mean we can’t simply turn up in numbers in Westminster on the streets, or the open spaces. We cannot risk either member or public safety, or the loss of public support, that could come from what could be an illegal demonstration.

“But far more than 1,800 NFU members want their voice to be heard, and rightly. The level of anger in the industry may never have been so high." It added: “If you’re not registered on the event, please don’t travel to London. There’s another opportunity to make clear how you feel.”

'We wanted to protest in a ­dignified and sensible way'

Now, Mr Clarkson has told The Sun that he was keen to protest alongside other farmers from the Cotswolds, but he has decided to abandon his plans following the NFU’s request.

The Top Gear, Clarkson's Farm and The Grand Tour star said: “We wanted to protest in a ­dignified and sensible way, which was why I had booked the coach rather than causing disruption with tractors and farming vehicles. I am in a fortunate position, but I feel desperately sorry for other farmers who are very angry and anxious about the future.

“The NFU have said officially they don’t want to disrupt people’s lives, but I have it on very good authority they have been told to do this.”

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