Sir John joined farmers gathering outside Westminster ahead of the Autumn Budget to voice their frustration at the government’s approach to agriculture. He said the budget offered no meaningful change, with the Labour government refusing to overturn the Family Farm Tax, leaving many farmers unable to pass their farms on to the next generation — in some cases after centuries of family ownership.

He warned that the removal of Agricultural Property Relief (APR) could force many to sell their land, leading to job losses and weakening the country’s food security. Sir John argued that the government appeared more focused on taxing hard-working farmers than supporting rural communities or helping people back into work.

He said he would continue to support and campaign for the nation’s farmers, pressing for the tax to be reversed and for greater recognition of the sector’s importance to the UK economy and food supply.