The National Farmers’ Union (NFU) is calling on all political parties to support policies that promote British food and farming in its recently released manifesto leading up to the next general election.
The manifesto features new research that highlights the importance of food and farming to voters as the election approaches, with a strong desire for increased Government support to enhance home-grown food production. According to the research conducted by More in Common and commissioned by the NFU, 84% of the 2,135 adults surveyed believe that food production targets are as important as, or even more important than, environmental targets for farming. Additionally, 82% of respondents support the idea of the Government setting targets to increase British food production. The survey also revealed that 66% of participants view parties’ plans for farming as a significant factor in their voting decision, and an equal percentage consider a long-term plan for food and farming as important when casting their vote.
A critical aspect outlined in the manifesto is the call for the Government to align its existing target-led ambitions for the environment and climate with similar ambitions for Britain’s food security, by establishing targets for food production.
NFU president Minette Batters emphasized the significance of this initiative, stating, “Food is something that connects us all – we cannot live without it. All our research shows that the British people really value our farmers and growers for the work they do day-in, day-out to feed the nation.”
Batters highlighted the vital role of British farmers and growers in ensuring the availability and affordability of quality, high-welfare, environmentally-friendly food amidst challenges such as the Covid pandemic, the war in Ukraine, the cost-of-living crisis, and environmental hazards. She stressed the need for policies that uphold and support British farming, mentioning that, “… food security must be one of them, with our farm businesses supported to invest and grow for the benefit of everyone.”
The NFU president stressed the importance of prioritizing sustainable, home-grown food production, caretaking the environment, and addressing climate change. Additionally, she emphasized the need for practical and progressive policies from political parties that invest in a future where British food and farming can thrive.
