MP welcomes NFU commitment to the uplands

Cumbrian MP Tim Farron has welcomed a new report and policy document produced by the National Farmers Union (NFU) that focuses on hill farmers and the uplands and the vital role they play in the British Agricultural industry.

The report, "Farming Delivers for the Hills and Uplands", details the important role that sheep and cattle have held for hundreds of years in shaping some of the UK's most iconic landscapes as well as highlighting the quality of the beef and lamb produced in the areas, which is increasingly significant given the ongoing horsemeat scandal.

Tim has welcomed the NFU's decision to emphasise their commitment to hill farmers in areas like the Lake District through a further policy document which outlines their main priority areas, including the impact of CAP reform and the unpredictable weather patterns as a result of climate change.

Tim has long been an active campaigner on behalf of hill farmers and currently chairs the All Party Parliamentary Group on Hill Farming, which seeks to press the case for hill farmers and ensure that their priorities and needs are constantly in the minds of ministers during the current negotiations in the EU on CAP reform.

Commenting Tim said: "With the current focus on the supply chains of the meat industry there is more and more demand for British produced beef and lamb, therefore as the hill and uplands are home to over 40% of our breeding ewes and beef cows in this country we cannot allow the uplands to be neglected.

"I am very pleased that the NFU has reemphasised its commitment to supporting our hill farmers who have been struggling to keep their farms and businesses viable. I look forward to working even more closely with them over the coming months to ensure the best possible deal for hill farmers through the reform of CAP."