Julian backs British farming
November 2, 2022
Julian has shown support for British food and farming today on Back British Farming Day, recognising the vital role farmers in York play in feeding the nation.
The National Farmers Union (NFU) provided the emblem of the day, a British wool and wheatsheaf pin badge. This symbolises the fantastic products British food and farming provides and recognises an industry which provides jobs for almost 4 million people and is worth more than £120 billion to the national economy.
Earlier this year, Julian held a business lunch for farmers across his constituency bringing together producers from across the sector from farms in Elvington, Crockey Hill, Heslington, Dunnington, Wigginton, and Poppleton. Julian is in the process of organising a second of such meetings where he hopes a Minister from the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs will come to York to meet local food producers face to face.
Rising costs, couple with the disruption caused by the war in Ukraine, has shown the importance of food security and Julian has pressed Ministers on the issue numerous times, both within the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs select committee as well as through parliamentary questions.
Commenting after the reception, Julian said “I am incredibly proud to represent the farmers and growers here in York and show my recognition for their work by supporting Back British Farming Day. As well as providing high-quality, climate-friendly food for the nation, our farmers also maintain and care for our iconic British countryside that we all enjoy.
“Farmers in York make a huge contribution to the local economy, providing jobs and, in many cases, producing renewable energy which help power more than 10 million homes across the country.
“Events over the past few years have shown us just how important it is to have a resilient farming sector, producing quality food for both home and abroad while shaping the land around us. That’s why I believe it is so important to recognise the importance of British agriculture and all it delivers to the nation.”
