Farnham and Bordon MP Greg Stafford has voiced strong opposition to the Government's proposed inheritance tax on agricultural land, joining his Conservative colleagues today in a bid to block the plans with a parliamentary vote.

The proposal, which has drawn widespread criticism from farmers and agricultural groups, including the National Farmers' Union (NFU), would alter Agricultural Property Relief and impose taxes on family-owned farms.

Mr Stafford argues that this legislation would devastate rural communities.

The proposal has sparked protests, including a high-profile rally in London on Tuesday, November 19, where farmers took to the streets to voice their concerns.

Mr Stafford has been vocal in his condemnation of the policy, claiming it will create unnecessary financial strain for farmers and their families, potentially forcing them out of business.

In response to the controversial measure, Stafford has been meeting with local farmers in his constituency to hear their concerns.

After attending an NFU rally in London opposing the proposals, Mr Stafford shared a video with Runfold farmer Bob Milton, who said the changes would: “stop his son coming into the business and stop us investing… and there does not seem to be a point in carrying on.”

Earlier this week, Mr Stafford visited several farms, including Meadow Cottage Farm, where he spoke directly to family farmers about the potential impact of the proposed inheritance tax on their businesses and ability to pass down their livelihoods to the next generation.

He said: “These policies pose a grave threat to rural communities and demonstrate a shocking lack of understanding of the challenges faced by non-urban areas. Whether it’s ignorance or deliberate targeting, the impact on farmers and their families is devastating.”

He added: “Even in opposition, I will continue to fight for the livelihoods of our farmers in Surrey and Hampshire. These policies are unfair, ill-considered, and will inflict unnecessary pain on hardworking rural communities.”

In a letter sent this week to the farmers, Mr Stafford said: “This situation is made all the more punitive given that the changes to Agricultural Property Relief are only expected to raise £230 million in 2026/27, a figure that even the Office for Budget Responsibility warns is ‘highly uncertain’.”