Matt Cullen of Fairness for Farmers said people across the UK are “waking up to the fact that food security is vital.”
Farmers took part in a go-slow protest in Dover, Kent, to show their unhappiness last month. (Image: PA)
Sir Keir Starmer has been told the UK is on the brink of food shortages unless his government listens to the concerns of Britain’s farmers, not least over controversial inheritance tax changes.
Matt Cullen, leader of the protest group Fairness for Farmers, issued his dire warning to the Prime Minister in the wake of recent protests in London, Dover and Holyhead, with another scheduled for next week.
Speaking to GB News presenter and former Brexit Party MEP Martin Daubney, he said: “If things don’t get resolved, we’ll see food shortages, food price inflation, and more militant protests. Farmers are angry, and this government must listen. It’s a fight they’re not going to win.”
Mr Cullen revealed that another major demonstration was planned for next week. Farmers will bring their tractors to Westminster in protest.
He reflected on the group’s recent actions: “Three weeks ago, we saw a great turnout of farmers on foot. Before that, in spring, we held protests across Kent and London, which showed growing frustration.
“Last week, we escalated things in Dover, and now farmers are ready to park their tractors on Mr Starmer’s lawn to demand attention. We’ve given the government plenty of time to engage, but they refuse to listen – not just to unions but to farmers directly.”
Mr Cullen explained that the British public was beginning to realise how “precious” homegrown British food was.
He added: “People want to support British farmers rather than rely on imported goods, the origins of which are often unclear. If this continues, we could end up importing 100% of our food, which is a dangerous place for any country to be.
“If global crises occur – whether it’s conflict like Putin’s war or natural disasters – every country will prioritise its own people, leaving us vulnerable.”
Farmers also protested in London last month. (Image: Getty)
Mr Cullen stressed that neither protest was purely about IHT changes being introduced from April 2025, which will mean that the full 100% relief from inheritance tax will be restricted to the first £1 million of combined agricultural and business property.
He continued: “Supermarkets and buyers have exploited farmers for years, squeezing margins to breaking point. These new tax changes are the final nail in the coffin.
“If Labour’s policies affect 70% of farmers rather than the 20% they claim, the UK agricultural sector could collapse. That’s why we’re standing up now. Farmers are uniting like never before, and we won’t back down.”
He also credited the public for increasing solidarity with the farming community, saying: “I’ve never seen so much support for British farmers. People are waking up to the fact that food security is vital. They want fair conditions for farmers so we can produce affordable food for everyone.”
Labour Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer (Image: Getty)
Nevertheless, Mr Cullen feared serious consequences if the government continues to ignore the protests.
He added: “Do I see food shortages before Christmas? Potentially.
“It all depends on whether the government decides to engage. If they dig their heels in, farmers will escalate further.
“This is not just about food – it’s about survival. If the government doesn’t change course, the public will face the consequences. We’re fighting back, and we will not stop until they listen.”
