Dr Neil Hudson, MP for Penrith and The Border, has today shown support for British food and farming on Back British Farming Day, recognising the crucial role farmers play in producing food for the nation and looking after the countryside. The National Farmers’ Union (NFU) provided MPs with a Back British Farming wool and wheatsheaf pin badge to publicly display their support at a crucial time for the agricultural sector with trade negotiations, including crucial talks with the EU, ongoing.
The UK food and farming industry is worth more than £120 billion to the national economy and employs more than 4 million people.
Commenting, Dr Neil Hudson MP, said: “I am extremely proud to wear the Back British Farming pin badge in support of the farming sector that is so valuable not just to Cumbria but to the whole country. As an MP and veterinary surgeon, I am proud to stand up for our farmers. With our high animal welfare, food production and environmental standards we can be a beacon to the rest of the world in these areas. I have stood up and voted on these standards in Parliament and will continue to do so.”
“The Coronavirus pandemic brought food security into sharp relief and really emphasised the importance of being able to produce and supply good locally and sustainably-produced food, Farmers were rightly identified as key workers during the Coronavirus pandemic. Thanks to those farmers, and the wider food supply chain, we were able to ensure supermarket shelves were kept stocked and the nation was fed during this difficult time. I am so grateful for all that they have done and continue to do.
“This autumn will be a critical time for British food and farming and I will do all I can to highlight the importance of upholding our high animal welfare and food standards in any future trade deals.”
“I would encourage everyone to get behind this important campaign and to Back British Farming.”