UK public ranks farmers second most respected

On Back British Farming Day, results from the Farmer Favourability survey again placed UK farmers and growers as the second most respected profession in the country, behind nurses. It is the third year in a row that farmers have ranked in this position.

The survey, conducted between May 23 and June 4, 2025, gathered responses from 2,000 members of the public. Findings showed that 92% of respondents believe it is important Britain maintains a productive farming sector, while 89% said British farms should grow as much food as possible to support food security. More than three-quarters of those surveyed also said they trust British food more than food from other countries.

With new ministers at Defra following a Cabinet reshuffle, the NFU marked the day with its parliamentary reception. NFU President Tom Bradshaw stated, "Just as we rightly celebrate the strength of our food and drink sector, we must also recognise and invest in the people who make it possible – our farmers and growers." He added that public support "spurs us on to get the food onto their plates."

Bradshaw emphasised that Back British Farming Day recognises not only food production but also the role of farmers in communities, the economy, and the environment. He said, "And clearly, the public is behind us."

Over the past decade, NFU campaigns have contributed to developments such as the introduction of "Buy British" buttons on major supermarket websites, the launch of No. 10's Farm to Fork Summit, and more than 250,000 people backing the NFU's family farm tax petition. NFU Education initiatives include Farmers for Schools, which sends farmer ambassadors into secondary schools, and the recently launched AgriFuture Scholarship Programme, which provides mentoring and career support for young people from underrepresented backgrounds.

Despite public backing, farmers face ongoing challenges. Nearly half of UK farm businesses are tenanted, and the average farmer is 60 years old, raising succession concerns. The NFU noted that farms invest heavily in the wider economy, support rural tourism, and diversify operations, but pressures on profitability remain.

Bradshaw said, "Key to the long-term future of our farms is improving the profitability of sustainable food production. One simple thing the government can do is the right thing on inheritance tax to avoid bereaved farming families having to fork out for an unaffordable tax bill – something we know the public stands behind." Two-thirds of respondents in the survey said the government should overturn the family farm tax.

The NFU's submission to the government's Farm Profitability Review outlined proposals to improve competitiveness and profitability while supporting food security and environmental targets.