51AVÊÓÆµ

108-year-old letter a timely reminder of British farmers' role in aiding victory during First World War

A letter written by Prime Minister David Lloyd George in 1917 has resurfaced online to reflect the national interest of growing food at home in a world filled with geopolitical uncertainty

Chris Brayford
clock • 6 min read
In his letter addressed to farmers across the UK, then Prime Minister David Lloyd George wrote the very timely words: "In the nation’s interest I urge you, at whatever personal sacrifice, to overcome all obstacles, to throw your fullest energies into the work, and to influence and encourage all who assist you, so that every possible acre shall be sown."
Image:

In his letter addressed to farmers across the UK, then Prime Minister David Lloyd George wrote the very timely words: "In the nation’s interest I urge you, at whatever personal sacrifice, to overcome all obstacles, to throw your fullest energies into the work, and to influence and encourage all who assist you, so that every possible acre shall be sown."

A 108-year-old letter has shed an important light on the sacrifice and efforts that farmers were expected to make to aide Britain's efforts during the First World War. Growing crisis Then Liberal...

To continue reading...

Already a member? Login for full access.

New to Farmers Guardian? Register for 1 free article per week or become a member for unlimited access to essential farming news and insights.

article-img-580x358

Ìý

More on Politics

Iran war: Fuel tax rises will hurt rural communities the most

Iran war: Fuel tax rises will hurt rural communities the most

Can Government step up its support for farmers and food producers as businesses face pressure from conflict in the Middle East?

Chris Brayford
clock 31 March 2026 • 4 min read
Letters: "Every farming family remains hopeful as IHT legal challenge unfolds"

Letters: "Every farming family remains hopeful as IHT legal challenge unfolds"

This week from Farmers Guardian readers: William Taylor, Farmers for Action Northern Ireland, covers the Judicial Review challenge to proposed Inheritance Tax changes, highlighting farmers’ concerns over limited consultation and the potential impact on family businesses

William Taylor
clock 31 March 2026 • 2 min read
The Farmers Guardian podcast: How is the Middle-East crisis impacting agriculture?

The Farmers Guardian podcast: How is the Middle-East crisis impacting agriculture?

The Farmers Guardian news team discuss the implications of the war in Iran

Alex Black
clock 31 March 2026 • 1 min read