Nigel Evans Asks Minister What Is Being Done To Protect Farming

Nigel Evans, Member of Parliament for the Ribble Valley, today challenged the Government as to what action it was taking over the state of dairy farming.

Speaking at Questions to the Secretary of State for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, Mr Evans said:

“There has been a steep decrease in the number of dairy farmers. I was privileged to attend the Gisburn Auction Mart on Saturday where I was very pleased to meet enthusiastic young farmers. But enthusiasm alone will not be enough to ensure the viability of the industry for the future. So what steps are the Government taking to ensure the viability of dairy farming?”

Later Mr Evans added,

“I think that the minister, Jim Fitzpartrick MP, buried his head in the sand with his response. I have, therefore, written to him inviting him to the Ribble Valley. I believe that he will benefit greatly by seeing the situation that dairy farmers face on a daily basis in the Ribble Valley first hand.”