140 politicians displayed their support for the British farming industry on Wednesday by wearing a Back British Farming wheat-pin badge in recognition of the importance of food and farming in Britain.
MPs from all over the country came together to celebrate Back British Farming Day at an NFU event in Westminster where they collected their pin badges, which were then displayed by dozens of MPs during Prime Minister’s Questions.
NFU President Minette Batters said: “Back British Farming Day is a celebration of our wonderful farmers and all they do to feed the nation, look after our iconic countryside and sustain our rural economy.
“With only six months to go until we leave the EU, it’s fantastic to see so many MPs actively supporting the farming industry and helping to put food and farming at the forefront of activity in Westminster.
“Food production impacts on every section of society and the NFU is working to ensure all MPs have a thorough understanding of farming and its value to the country, so that farmers are able to continue to produce food which is safe, traceable and affordable to all.
“It is vital that the support and commitment shown by politicians today continues after Back British Farming Day, both in their decision-making over the next few months and beyond our departure from the EU.”
Members of the cabinet and shadow cabinet were among those committing their support for the farming industry today, and following a question from Trudy Harrison MP2 the Prime Minister acknowledged the role farmers play in caring for the countryside and assured the House of Commons that a policy is being developed that works for British farmers.