Record attendance at Larking Gowen’s Autumn Farming Conference as industry faces major change

This year’s Larking Gowen Autumn Farming Conference saw a record turnout, with more than 250 farmers, landowners and rural business owners attending events across Ipswich, Diss, Fakenham and Norwich. The strong attendance reflected the uncertainty currently felt across the agricultural sector, following the Government’s Autumn Budget announcement.

To give attendees the most up-to-date guidance, the conference moved from its usual November slot to early December and introduced a new format: shorter morning seminars held across multiple locations. This made it easier for delegates to attend locally, while still accessing expert insight on the latest legislative, tax and policy changes affecting rural businesses.

Topical insights and expert speakers

·       Sessions covered key issues currently facing the farming community, including:

·       the post-Budget landscape

·       proposed changes to Capital Gains Tax (CGT) and Inheritance Tax (IHT)

·       updates to the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI)

·       developments in the wider Environmental Land Management schemes

Larking Gowen Partners Bruce Masson and Laurie Hill guided attendees through expected tax changes due after April 2026, highlighting how these could affect rural businesses of all sizes.

Mood of the room: Cautious but engaged

Delegates took part in live Slido polling at each venue. The results showed generally low optimism about the future of UK farming—particularly in Ipswich and Norwich, where negative responses outnumbered positive ones three to one. Diss was the only location where sentiment was nearly evenly split.

IHT changes spark widespread concern

One of the most talked-about topics was the Government’s proposed changes to IHT reliefs. CLA President Gavin Lane called the policy “counterproductive,” urging farmers to prepare for potentially significant tax liabilities after April 2026 and to start planning now.

Speakers stressed the importance of budgeting, scenario planning, and building a trusted team of advisers—accountants, solicitors, land agents and financial planners—to support decision-making and futureproof rural businesses.

Positive engagement and community support

Despite the challenges facing the sector, feedback from attendees was extremely positive. Many appreciated the practical advice and the opportunity to begin important succession planning conversations within their businesses and families.

Farming director Mike Fairey summed it up:

“One of the best conferences I’ve been to. Good speakers and excellent content.”

Proceeds from this year’s conference will be donated to YANA (You Are Not Alone)

Larking Gowen’s chosen charity partner, which supports mental health in the farming and rural community.

The events were supported by headline sponsor Virgin Money and featured contributions from the Country Land and Business Association (CLA), with President Gavin Lane among those raising concerns about the IHT reforms. Legal and financial perspectives were shared by teams from Ashtons Legal, Brown & Co, Alan Boswell Group and Beckett Financial Services.

Need help?

If you’re concerned about how the Autumn Budget or upcoming tax changes could affect your rural business, we’re here to help.

Get in touch with your usual Larking Gowen contact or email enquiry@larking-gowen.co.uk