Sir Patrick pins his colours to farmers’ mast

DALES MP Patrick Mcloughlin threw his lot in with British farmers last week at the Back British Farming Day.

Held in Westminster on September 12, the event was set up to recognise the crucial role that farmers play in producing food and caring for the countryside.

The National Farmers’ Union (NFU) provided MPS with a Back British Farming wheatpin badge to publicly display their support for the sector during Brexit negotiations and beyond leaving the EU.

Farming is the bedrock of the UK’S largest manufacturing sector – food and drink – which contributes more than £110 billion to the economy and employs 3.8 million people.

Mr Mcloughlin said: “I am immensely proud to wear the Back British Farming pin badge today in support of a sector that is so valuable to the country. Our farmers play a unique role in securing a plentiful supply of fabulous British food, looking after our iconic countryside and sustaining a dynamic rural economy.

“The decisions made in Parliament over the coming months are critical to the future of British food production.

“As one of the sectors that will be most affected by Britain’s departure from the EU, it is important we as politicians create the right regulatory environment to ensure our farmers can continue to provide safe and affordable food for the nation.

“Food production is a vital part of everyday life and impacts on us all. I would encourage all MPS and members of the pubic to get behind this important campaign and Back British Farming.”