Women have historically played small roles as farm owners in agriculture in Britain, [1] but their own or rent farms are rapidly increasing in the 21st century.
There were 13,000 in 2008; By 2014, there were 23,000 people. [quote required]
A 2014 survey by Farmers Weekly showed that 59% of women think agriculture is as good as any other industry that offers equal opportunities for women.
Women were also initially bringing money to the farms through small diversification of other jobs. [2] Farmers Weekly broadcast a television show called Farmers Apprentice, presented by Leicestershire dairy farmer Philippa Hall.
In March 2016, then Environment Minister Elizabeth Truss celebrated International Women's Day with women farmers. [4] In Scotland, the government and the Scottish National Farmers Association are working to encourage women in agriculture in the 21st century.
In February 2018, the 110-year-old National Farmers Association of England and Wales named cattle farmer Minette Batters as its first female president.
