Support for British farmers has soared to a record high as a result of their efforts to keep the nation fed during the coronavirus pandemic, a new survey has revealed.
Conducted by OnePoll, the Farmer Favourability survey found 75 per cent of Britons viewed the farming industry positively, the highest figure since the survey began in 2012.
It also marked a six-point increase since last year, with the majority of those questioned citing farmers’ work during lockdown as the reason for their approval.
NFU president Minette Batters said: “Like the rest of the nation, our farmers have had a challenging year, and it is fantastic to see the British public has recognised the efforts of growers and producers across the country in keeping us fed.”
Ms Batters claimed the figures showed ‘growing’ public understanding of the importance of the food supply chain.
“[This has been demonstrated] over the past few months, with more than one million people signing the NFU’s petition urging the Government to ensure future trade deals do not lead to an increase in food imports that would be illegal to produce here,” she said.
“This has sent a strong signal to Westminster on how highly British people value quality, sustainably produced British food.”
The findings also revealed that 86 per cent of the 2,000 adults surveyed in England and Wales agreed British farms should grow as much food as they can to provide national food security.
Some 77 per cent believed farmers should continue to receive financial support post-Brexit, a nine point increase on the figure in 2017.
Ms Batters added: “As farmers, we must continue to show the public how much the UK farming sector delivers for the nation, the economy and the environment.
“Their support is going to be invaluable in the months and years ahead.”