Supporting British Farming
During PMQs, keen-eyed viewers may have noticed that some MPs are wearing a wheat sheaf. This symbolic gesture is worn in support of Back British Farming Day—a special day aimed at supporting the British farming sector and highlighting its importance in future government trade deals.
What is Back British Farming Day?
Back British Farming Day is an annual event organized by the National Farmers' Union (NFU). Its purpose is to raise awareness for local farming and celebrate the hard work of British farmers who keep the nation fed. This year, the event fell on September 13, but the date changes each year.
The NFU tweeted: "Today is #BackBritishFarmingDay, a chance to celebrate all the hard work British farmers do to keep the nation fed... It's #PMQs now in the House of Commons and you may be seeing a lot of MPs wearing these badges and wondering what they mean. We've invited all MPs to show their support for British farming on #BackBritishFarmingDay by wearing a wool and wheatsheaf pin badge."
The initiative serves as a reminder to politicians that British food and farming contribute over £120 billion to the UK economy annually and employ four million people.
MPs Showing Support
Many MPs have been seen proudly wearing a wheat sheaf to show their solidarity with British farming. Labour Party leader Sir Keir Starmer has been seen with three sheaves of wheat displayed prominently on his suit. Dr. Liam Fox, MP for North Somerset, has also proudly worn a wheat sheaf on his tie in the past.
Other MPs, such as Craig Williams, MP for Montgomeryshire, and Ben Bradley, MP for Mansfield, have shared their support on Twitter by attaching wheat symbols to their clothing. Even Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle was spotted wearing the badge as he maintained order in the House.
In contrast, in both 2022 and 2023, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak opted not to wear a sheaf, sparking speculation and further discussion.
Symbols such as the wheat sheaf serve as a visual reminder of the need to prioritize and support the British farming sector. They provide an opportunity for politicians to showcase their commitment to boosting the food and farming industry and ensuring that farmers have the necessary support to thrive.
