Video: Farage outlines Reform UK’s pitch to farmers
Nigel Farage (wearing cap) with farmers at Reform's Basingstoke event © MAG/Philip Case As Reform UK’s national tour promoting its local elections campaign gets into gear, Nigel Farage spoke to Farmers Weekly about the party’s growing support among farmers.
During the interview, Mr Farage reacted to the recent Farmers Weekly Sentiment Survey which showed backing among farmers for Reform UK has risen from 15% to 40% over the past year.
See also: Chlorinated chicken entering UK ‘won’t happen’, says Farage
He said the shift reflected Reform’s focus on rural issues – from farming and fishing to countryside management – but admitted his personal popularity might also be down to other politicians being “not that good”.
Mr Farage also outlined his concerns about solar farms on agricultural land, inheritance tax pressures on farms, and rising rural crime.
He addressed Reform’s 2024 election manifesto pledge to boost British food security, including a target of 70% self-sufficiency, with Wales serving as a “testbed” for these policies.
On trade, he responded to farmers’ concerns about imported products such as chlorinated chicken, stressing the importance of clear labelling and promoting the premium quality of British produce.
Addressing questions about equality legislation, he emphasised a merit-based approach to employment in agriculture.
Finally, he said Reform UK’s rural support was still growing, and argued the party could play a significant role in the next general election.