An overwhelming majority of the public support the farming sector according to the 2017 results of the Farmer Favourability survey from the NFU.

In the first of these annual surveys since the UK’s vote to leave the EU, the NFU has said the findings powerfully demonstrate the public’s strong recognition of British farming’s contribution to the country.

Out of those surveyed, 68 per cent had a favourable or very favourable view of British farming, 90 per cent think farming is important to the UK economy, and 89 per cent thought it is important to have a productive farming industry.

The role farming plays in proving safe, traceable food through supply chains independently audited by assurance scheme like Red Tractor was also recognised by the public, with 64 per cent of respondents saying they trust British food more than the rest of the world, and 66 per cent often or always specifically look for British food when shopping.

Government support post-Brexit for the sector is also something the public felt strongly about, with 68 per cent of those questioned saying they feel that farmers should receive support to both produce food and look after the environment in equal measure: 82 per cent agreed farmers should receive support for preserving the countryside, compared to 81 per cent for ensuring reasonable food prices.

Around three quarters of respondents agreed that farmers should receive assistance towards protecting the environment and for dealing with climate change, at 75 per cent, for investing in farm businesses for future generations, at 73 per cent, and ensuring a fair standard of living for farmers, at 73 per cent.

NFU president Meurig Raymond said: “The results of this survey will make for welcome news for the farming sector. It’s clear the public recognise the strategic importance of farming in feeding the country, looking after the countryside and contributing to the economy.

“Public support is vital to the British farming industry. It sends a strong message to the MPs and decision-makers who have a huge opportunity during Brexit negotiations to create a political environment where farming can really thrive. This support will be instrumental for the British farming sector in the coming months and years ahead.”