East Midlands MEPs pledge to support British farming

East Midlands MEPs Emma McClarkin and Andrew Lewer were among Conservative MEPs who this week put their names to a charter pledging support for British farming.

The two MEPs signed a five-point pledge committing support for UK agriculture and backing British growers in producing healthy, sustainable food.

The pledge called for fair contracts, sustainable growth, balanced trade deals with other countries, a central place for science in agricultural decision-making, and a simpler, more-equitable Common Agricultural Policy.

Miss McClarkin and Mr Lewer signed up to the pledge at an event organised in the European Parliament in Strasbourg by the four farming unions of England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. They were thanked for their support by the President of the National Farmers’ Union Meurig Raymond.

Miss McClarkin said:

“I’ve always been a big supporter of farming in the East Midlands, so I’m delighted to be able to give my support and promise to keep fighting for British farmers. The pledge sets out a clear vision of a fair deal for farming that should reassure consumers while securing a viable future for agriculture.”

Mr Lewer added:

“Farming is central to the economy, health and wellbeing of the whole country and if we fail to support farmers we fail to support ourselves. I was pleased to be asked to lend my support and I’ll continue to ensure that the voices of British farmers are heard here in Strasbourg and in Brussels.”