"During the Second World War, there was great concern as to whether Britain, unable to import food from abroad, would be able to feed its population. The National Farm Survey 1941-1943 was established to provide data required to increase food production. Every farm in England and Wales was described in great detail. Information on farming types, cropping and stocking, machinery, employment, farm size and structure, land ownership and farm buildings was collected for all farms.

Because of its sensitivity, this material only became publicly available in the Public Records Office in 1992 after a 50 year closure period.".

"This book gives an overview of this 'Domesday' of British agriculture. Incorporating maps and illustrations, it is of relevance to all those interested in geography, agricultural ecomonics, history, environmental studies and sociology. It will also be an indispensable guide to those concerned with local history, genealogy, and the history of the countryside."--BOOK JACKET.