大学受験対策｜英語 長文読解問題29 難易度：★★☆☆☆

Agriculture has long been a key part of the British economy, providing food and supporting rural communities across the country. However, British farmers now face various challenges that affect their daily work and the nation’s overall food supply. One main issue is the unpredictability of weather patterns, which can lead to floods, droughts, and sudden temperature changes. These conditions harm crops, reduce yields, and make planning more difficult for farmers, who must adapt quickly to new realities.

Another challenge is the shortage of skilled labor, partly caused by recent changes in immigration rules, which limit the number of foreign workers. Without enough workers, farms may struggle to harvest crops on time, leading to waste and higher costs. In addition, many farmers are worried about rising expenses for fuel, machinery, and animal feed, which can hurt profits.

Despite these problems, there are positive trends in British agriculture. Some farmers are turning to innovative methods like precision farming, where technology helps measure and manage crops more efficiently. Others are exploring organic and sustainable practices to meet consumer demands for healthier and greener products. Meanwhile, the government offers support programs and grants, encouraging farmers to improve their productivity and protect the environment.

By combining modern techniques with traditional knowledge, British agriculture can continue to feed the population and ensure a bright future. For example, new research on drought-resistant crops and better irrigation systems can help farms survive extreme weather. If farmers, businesses, and policymakers collaborate, the United Kingdom can develop a strong, sustainable farming sector for the next generation.

Q1. Which additional difficulty, besides unpredictable weather, affects British farmers’ daily operations?

1. Many farmers choose to grow only one type of crop despite better options.
2. Strict immigration rules limit the availability of skilled labor, raising costs on many farms.
3. Local communities expect farmers to plant trees rather than produce food for national supply.
4. Demand for grain remains low, and farmers are advised to reduce overall production immediately.

Q2. What could help British agriculture stay successful over the coming years?

1. Strong barriers should be placed around farmland, preventing new technologies from altering old methods.
2. Prices for basic foods must remain low, regardless of market trends or production costs.
3. Farmers should rely exclusively on outdated equipment, even if weather patterns constantly shift rapidly.
4. Collaboration between government, businesses, and rural communities can advance research and ensure lasting progress.

Q3. Which of the following statements is NOT supported by the text?

1. The British government discourages the use of environmentally friendly practices, believing they harm local economies.
2. Some farmers adopt cutting-edge tools and focus on eco-friendly methods to meet public demand.
3. Leaders from diverse fields collaborate to help agriculture withstand extreme weather and feed future generations.
4. Agriculture plays a vital role in the United Kingdom’s economy, despite shifting weather conditions every season.