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.

Login

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

 

More on Politics

Defra urged by Labour MPs to boost drought resilience for farms

Defra urged by Labour MPs to boost drought resilience for farms

Norfolk's Ben Goldsborough leads call for more reservoirs, better communication and flexible abstraction rights

Jane Thynne
clock 01 August 2026 • 2 min read
Government faces backlash over peatland wildfire policy

Government faces backlash over peatland wildfire policy

The Countryside Alliance has accused the UK government of worsening wildfire risks by continuing to ban heather burning on deep peat

Rachael Brown
clock 30 July 2026 • 2 min read
Opinion: Liz Staley - Ensuring farming support reaches farmers and delivers value for taxpayers

Opinion: Liz Staley - Ensuring farming support reaches farmers and delivers value for taxpayers

Cumbrian farmer Liz Staley reflects on the Sustainable Farming Incentive

Liz Staley
clock 25 July 2026 • 4 min read