‘Overwhelming public support’ for British farmers

A new poll has indicated huge support among the British population for the nation’s farmers.

A survey unveiled at the NFU Conference, designed to test the mood ahead of the general election, saw 94 per cent of respondents agree that it is important that government backs British farming and food production.

Some 81 per cent of the 4,068 adults surveyed by Deltapoll said it’s important that the food they are buying is produced in Britain rather than imported from overseas.

The poll also revealed that nearly half of respondents believe the amount of money being spent by government on UK farming should be increased.

Outgoing NFU president Minette Batters said: “This new research clearly shows two key things: first that food is something that connects with people, both in the head and the heart, and second that farming is important to everyone in this country, whether they live in rural areas or not.

“It comes as no surprise that the British public want whoever is in power to demonstrate how they plan to boost sustainable home-grown food production and care for the environment. Support for British food and farming will be a deciding factor in the general election and all political parties should take note.”