UK Retailers Downplay Risk of Farmer Strikes Amid Inheritance Tax Dispute
Source: DairyNews.today
Britain's retail sector has sought to ease concerns over potential disruptions to food supplies, following threats of farmer strikes in response to the government's new inheritance tax policy. Retailers have emphasized their capability to manage supply chain disruptions, even as some farmers threaten to withhold produce in protest.
Farmers have voiced anger over the new budget measure, which would make them liable for inheritance tax, prompting fears of food shortages as protests intensify. The National Farmers Union (NFU) has stated that it does not support the idea of withholding supplies, although some farmers remain determined to disrupt food availability.
“Retailers are closely monitoring the impact of potential interventions, including strikes, but are experienced in handling disruption and are committed to ensuring customers aren’t affected,” said Andrew Opie, director of food and sustainability at the British Retail Consortium (BRC). The BRC represents the UK’s largest retailers, including major supermarket chains.
Tesco, the country’s largest supermarket with a market share of nearly 28%, referred inquiries to the BRC.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer, speaking at the Welsh Labour Conference, reaffirmed that there would be no changes to the inheritance tax policy, defending the government's budget decisions. Farmers, having protested in Wales on Saturday, are planning a larger demonstration in London on Tuesday.
Transport Minister Louise Haigh also downplayed concerns over food shortages, telling Sky News on Sunday that she was not worried about the situation.
“Retailers are closely monitoring the impact of potential interventions, including strikes, but are experienced in handling disruption and are committed to ensuring customers aren’t affected,” said Andrew Opie, director of food and sustainability at the British Retail Consortium (BRC). The BRC represents the UK’s largest retailers, including major supermarket chains.
Tesco, the country’s largest supermarket with a market share of nearly 28%, referred inquiries to the BRC.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer, speaking at the Welsh Labour Conference, reaffirmed that there would be no changes to the inheritance tax policy, defending the government's budget decisions. Farmers, having protested in Wales on Saturday, are planning a larger demonstration in London on Tuesday.
Transport Minister Louise Haigh also downplayed concerns over food shortages, telling Sky News on Sunday that she was not worried about the situation.
