Final answer:
The British government launched the Women's Land Army, funded new tractors for farms, and implemented rationing to deal with wartime shortages. They also redirected the economy towards the war effort, including increasing munitions production after the shell crisis and enlisting civilians in crucial defence roles.
Step-by-step explanation:
The leaders of Britain had to confront multiple challenges during times of shortage, especially during World War I and World War II. To counter the severe food shortages caused by the German blockades during wartime, the British government took several measures. The creation of the Women's Land Army was a significant step, where nearly 100,000 British women volunteered to work on farms. This initiative helped keep agricultural production going when many farmers were drafted into the war. Furthermore, the British leaders responded to economic needs by providing funds for new tractors to replace horses that had been requisitioned by the military. Additionally, Britain experienced the implementation of rationing to ensure equitable distribution of food among civilians, starting in 1918 during World War I. To combat the economic strain and support the war effort, Britain focused on redirecting all aspects of its economy, including increased production in munitions factories following the shell crisis of 1915, and encouraging civilians to contribute through planting vegetables and taking up essential roles such as Air Raid Wardens and the Home Guard.