MP votes to protect high animal welfare and environmental standards in trade deals

Last night, local MP Tim Farron supported amendments to the Trade Bill, aiming to ensure that future trade agreements with other counties meet the UK's high standards on animal welfare and the environment.

However, yet again these amendments were voted down by the Conservative Government.

Speaking after the votes, Tim said: "Farmers across the country are worried about their future - they're worried that the UK will be flooded with poor quality food that undercuts the goods they produce to high environmental and animal welfare standards.

"The Conservatives have continually failed to protect our farmers from these risks. These amendments would have ensured that our farmers are protected and can continue to produce high quality food for our tables. That's why Liberal Democrats supported them.

"We are already seeing the impact the Prime Minister's Brexit deal is having on the fishing industry and by voting to reject these amendments the Conservatives have shown they are no ally to farmers either.

"Liberal Democrats back British farmers and will continue to fight to protect our food standards and their livelihoods. British farmers have a vital role to play in helping us tackle climate change and protect our natural environment, driving them out of business will be damaging for everyone."