Farmers 'blocked' from protesting at Sainsbury's by police

Several farmers from in and around Basingstoke and Andover arranged a demonstration at Sainsbury's Distribution Centre in Houndmills, Basingstoke, on Thursday, February 5, calling for an opportunity to share their concerns.

However, those involved claim that they were "deterred" by a large police presence at the site, which organisers claimed prevented them from protesting.

Farmer and ward councillor for Evingar, Jo Perry, explained that protestors were hoping for an open dialogue with Sainsbury's.

She added: "No one should have to pay it [inheritance tax], not just farmers, it is wrong, it's a tax on death.

Frustrated farmers discouraged from protesting after police arrive at depot (Image: Sean Dillow)

"The idea was to get everyone together and head to Sainsbury's, but we noticed loads of police cars and drones, and the situation got worse.

"Eventually, everyone decided that because the police were out in force and blocking us from getting to Sainsbury's, it would be better to go home and make them look silly.

"It costs a lot of money and makes them look ridiculous.

"Everybody has the right to protest, but it seemed the police wanted to make an example of us."

Hampshire Constabulary said that police were present at the distribution centre to "facilitate a peaceful protest" and ensure the safety of road users, not to block the protest.

A spokesperson for Hampshire Constabulary said: "We were made aware of a planned protest involving a number of tractors at the Sainsbury’s Distribution Centre on Houndmills Road in Basingstoke. This did not, however, take place.

"We ensured officers were in the area so we could facilitate any peaceful protest, while also protecting the rights of others, ensuring the safety of everyone using the road network, and minimising disruption to the local community."