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

IHT story is far from over, but campaign must continue in a different way

IHT story is far from over, but campaign must continue in a different way

What are the next steps farmers can take to stop the family farm tax at a time when some have argued that the fight to raise thresholds is 'dead' under the current Labour Government?

Chris Brayford
clock 12 April 2026 • 6 min read
Welsh Election 2026: Middle East uncertainty highlights need to back domestic food production

Welsh Election 2026: Middle East uncertainty highlights need to back domestic food production

NFU Cymru and FUW have emphasised the need for the next Welsh Government to provide fair and sustainable funding, evidence-based policymaking and regulatory reform to safeguard the viability and long-term sustainability of Welsh agriculture

Chris Brayford
clock 09 April 2026 • 4 min read
From the editor: A glimmer of hope, but uncertainty remains the watchword

From the editor: A glimmer of hope, but uncertainty remains the watchword

This week from the Farmers Guardian editor Katie Jones

Katie Jones
clock 09 April 2026 • 2 min read