MP asks Home Secretary to help promote the Countryside Code after more reports of anti-social behaviour in the Lake District

On the floor of the House of Commons this afternoon, local MP Tim Farron encouraged the Home Secretary to fund and enforce a new campaign to promote the Countryside Code after there were more reports of anti-social behaviour in the Lake District at the weekend.

Speaking during a statement in Parliament on public order, Tim said: "Cumbria's police report that, since the lockdown, on 27 separate occasions officers have been spat at.

"Now each weekend we see the police and rangers report a minority of visitors abusing them and locals and guilty of littering, vandalism and complete disregard of the welfare of wildlife and of livestock.

"Whilst it goes without saying that most visitors behave absolutely impeccably, will the Home Secretary fund and enforce a new promotion of the Countyside Code so that everyone respects local communities and protects our environment?"

In response, the Home Secretary Priti Patel said the Government had been working with the police to communicate the Countryside Code but added that "much more work can be done" by local agencies and local councils to promote the message.

Tim has also been calling for local people to send him videos for him to put together a public information video promoting the Countryside Code of Respect, Protect and Enjoy.

Tim is encouraging people to film themselves setting a good example following the Code - such as taking litter home with them, parking responsibly and closing farm gates - and email the videos to him at tim@timfarron.co.uk.