Escape to the Country’s Jules Hudson rages Labour ‘need to to listen’ in farmers tax row

Jules Hudson revealed “there’s a lot of worried people out there” as he spoke out about Labour’s decision to raise inheritance tax for farmers.

In October’s Budget, chancellor Rachel Reeves announced a 20% inheritance tax that will apply to farms worth more than £1m from April 2026. Farmers argued that the changes will destroy family farms, while Tom Bradshaw, president of the National Farmers’ Union (NFU), branded it a “betrayal”.

Jules, best know for hosting popular rural shows such as and , admitted he is “concerned” about what the changes mean for farmers and hopes the government make the right decisions going forward.

Speaking exclusively to Express.co.uk at the TV Choice Awards, the 55-year-old said: “I live a rural life. I think we are all concerned about anything that could potentially undermine the fabric of rural life.

“I get it, the government has to make decisions but we just ask that they’re the right ones. I can’t be too political about it but needless to say, I live and work in a farming community. There’s a lot of very worried people out there.”

The NFU have organised a number of protests in London as they continue their campaign against the changes, with the latest taking place on Monday (February 10) outside Parliament.

Jules added: “It’s interesting as there were big demonstrations in the heart of London today. I just hope somebody’s listening to be honest because it really matters to us all.”

Escape to the Country was nominated for Best Daytime Show and went on to scoop the gong for the first time since its inception in 2002. Jules and the team also walked away with another award as On The Farm was deemed the Best Factual Show.

With two of his shows receiving nominations, Jules said: “It’s great to come here and champion two rural shows which reinforces that as Brits, we love our countryside and rural life.”

Taking to after the TV Choice Awards concluded, the archaeologist expressed his gratitude as he reflected on the double win.

Alongside a selection of snaps from the evening, Jules wrote: “Oh what a night!!! HUGE thanks to everyone and our fabulous Farmy Army for helping Springtime on the Farm to our third successive TV Choice award for best Factual Show, and for our First ever Best Daytime show award for Escape to the Country!

“It was an amazing evening celebrating with our fabulous production teams and one or two other famous friends; congratulations to @nicholasralph_ and the All Creatures Great and Small cast and crew too. Thank you all so very much. We couldn’t have done it without your support. Xxx.”