A new survey by Farmers Guardian has revealed overwhelming concern within the agricultural sector that the current Government does not recognise farming's contribution to society, with almost 100% of respondents expressing this view.

The post-Budget survey of nearly 500 farmers was conducted as part of Farmers Guardian's Save Britain's Family Farms campaign and sought to gauge sentiment across the industry following what many describe as one of the most turbulent years in recent memory.

Despite the Government's decision just before Christmas to amend its Inheritance Tax (IHT) proposals by raising the threshold from £1 million to £2.5 million per spouse, confidence remains low. The survey found that only 11% of farmers would consider voting Labour at the next General Election even if the party were to completely reverse the proposed IHT changes.

Investment across the sector has also stalled. More than 85% of respondents said they had either changed or scaled back investment plans following Labour's initial announcement on what farmers have termed the 'family farm tax'. Over three-quarters said they intend to continue opposing the IHT changes, which are due to be introduced in April.

Alarmingly, almost half of those surveyed said they had considered giving up farming, ending a tenancy or selling their business entirely within the last 12 months. Meanwhile, 78% said they remain committed to fighting the proposed IHT rules.

One farmer responding to the survey said: "The damage to farming families' livelihoods, security and mental health has not been considered. The knock-on effect to the rural economy will be huge."

Another warned that the next generation simply cannot afford the tax burden, adding that paying it would force many to sell parts of their farms, rendering thousands of businesses unviable.

Commenting on the findings, a Farmers Guardian Editor Katie Jones said:
"This survey sends a stark message from the farming community. Family farms feel undervalued, unheard and under threat, and the proposed Inheritance Tax changes have intensified those concerns. Save Britain's Family Farms exists to highlight not just what is at stake for farming families, but the vital role farming plays in food security, the rural economy and environmental stewardship."

The Save Britain's Family Farms campaign aims to support farmers through the proposed IHT changes while demonstrating farming's wider value to society. It highlights how agriculture can be part of the solution to major national challenges, from environmental management to economic resilience and food production.