The government minister responsible for farming has been invited to the Island to discuss support for small scale-farmers.
Environment Secretary, Theresa Villiers, has been invited by MP Bob Seely to visit the Island to discuss support for small scale-farmers as part of his campaign for government recognition of the specific problems faced by many sectors of the Island’s economy.
The invitation was made in the House of Commons on Monday (3 February) during the second reading of the Agriculture Bill - legislation designed to transform British farming.
The Bill will replace the EU’s Common Agriculture Policy with a system where farmers are rewarded with public money for public benefits, such as cleaner air and water or improved animal welfare standards. At the same time, it aims to help boost productivity and maximise the potential of land for sustainable food production.
Mr Seely said: “Even modest support for small-scale farmers could be extremely valuable. An Island Deal could include support for small-scale abattoirs or humane slaughter on farms, which is the most humane way of slaughtering animals for human consumption, as well as milk storage, grain storage and vegetable box erectors on the Island.
“These would work well for the Island as well as many other parts of the United Kingdom.”
Ms Villiers said she would be delighted to meet with Mr Seely to discuss his suggestions and would be more than happy to visit the Island.