16/09/2026
Chancellor Urged to Reverse Family Business Inheritance Tax Reforms
The Chancellor has come under increasing pressure to reverse controversial inheritance tax changes affecting family-owned businesses, amid concerns that the measures could hinder economic growth and investment across the UK.
More than 200,000 businesses have signed an open letter calling for the abolition of reforms to Business Property Relief (BPR), which were introduced by former Chancellor Rachel Reeves. Under the revised rules, relief is capped at £1 million, with assets exceeding this threshold subject to an effective 50% inheritance tax charge.
Industry leaders argue that the changes place additional financial burdens on family-run enterprises and could discourage long-term business ownership in the UK.
Neil Davy, Chief Executive of Family Business UK, said that reversing the reforms would demonstrate the Government's commitment to supporting domestic businesses and entrepreneurship.
“Reversing these changes would send a powerful message that Britain wants businesses to stay here,” he said.
The letter has also received support from several leading trade organisations, including UK Hospitality, the British Independent Retailers Association, Build UK, and the Country Land and Business Association.
The renewed campaign follows comments from former Labour minister Lord Blunkett, who described the inheritance tax changes affecting family farms as a mistake. His concerns have been echoed by former Prime Minister Lord Cameron, adding further political pressure for a review of the policy.
Business groups are now urging the Government to reconsider the reforms, arguing that maintaining favourable tax treatment for family-owned businesses and farms is essential to supporting investment, protecting jobs, and sustaining long-term economic growth.