The latest research says that three quarters (75 per cent) of the public back British farmers, the highest figure on record since the annual survey began in 2012.
The positive image has been bolstered by the industry’s efforts to keep food on the shelves during the COVID-19 crisis. The most recent Farmer Favourability Survey shows a six per cent increase in public favourability since June 2019, which builds on the five per cent increase seen between June 2018-2019. Fewer people also claiming to have no opinion on farming, dropping from 25% to 21% over the past year. When the survey started in 2012, this figure was at 33%.
NFU president Minette Batters commented, “It’s fantastic to see that the British public has recognised the efforts of producers across the country in keeping us fed. I, along with my fellow farmers, remain extremely thankful for this huge show of public support and the increasing value they place on quality British food. These figures demonstrate growing public thinking; understanding and supporting our food supply chain has never been more important.”
The survey also showed that the vast majority (86 per cent) of respondents agreed that British farms should grow as much food as they can to provide national food security, while 88 per cent feel it is important that Britain has a productive farming industry – the highest figure for three years.
Photo source: NFU