Valerie signs pledge to Back British Farming

On Wednesday 13 September 2017 I pledged my support to British food and farming and celebrated the huge contribution that British farmers and growers make in producing the nation’s food.

Farming in the West Midlands contributes £828 million to the local economy and provides 42,903 jobs – this is on top of the safe, affordable food farmers produce and British countryside they maintain.

In addition to its role producing food, farming also supports the work of other industries, such as vets, solicitors, surveyors and feed merchants.

At the event I discussed with the National Farmers’ Union that farmers are asking for access to existing markets in or out of the EU. I asked the Leader of the House at Business Questions on Thursday 14 September 2017 when the White Paper on trade will be published.

I pledge to:

1. Work to ensure British farmers retain the best possible access to existing markets both inside and outside the EU.
2. Ensure that the process of leaving the EU maintains the highest level of certainty and stability for British farm businesses.

It is vital that the Government champion British farming and create the right regulatory environment to ensure our farmers can continue to provide the safe and affordable food that the public trust and demand