November 3rd, 2020.

Lewes Lib Dems release:


Local Liberal Democrats have called on Maria Caulfield MP for once to put her Brexit obsession behind her, back British farming and vote to protect our high environmental and animal welfare standards.

In a letter to Ms Caulfield, Liberal Democrat parliamentary spokesperson, James MacCleary, warned the Tories that they must ensure any post-Brexit trade deals meet existing UK animal welfare and food safety rules. The votes come tomorrow - Wednesday 4th - in amendments to the Agriculture Bill.

According to the NFU, over a million people have also signed their petition calling for the UK Government to put laws in place that prevent imports of food that is produced in ways that are illegal here in the UK.

Liberal Democrat parliamentary spokesperson for Lewes, James MacCleary, said: "Our rural communities are being abandoned in the rush for Brexit at any cost. Farming is not just a part of our economy, but also part of our culture and our heritage.

"My grandparents were dairy farmers and I've seen the sacrifices it takes to keep a farm going. It's as much about a way of life as it is about making any money. Many farmers, like my grandparents, have second jobs like running a B&B from the farmhouse to keep things going.

"It is thanks to tireless campaigning by organisations such as the NFU and the many individuals who supported them and care about the food that there is now an opportunity to protect our high standards of food safety. Sadly, the prospect of chlorinated chicken and hormone-laced beef are very much on the table for hard Brexiteers like Maria Caulfield.

“It is clear that, until now, our Brexit-obsessed MP has been ready to sell out our farmers whatever the cost to them. She needs to start putting the needs of her constituents ahead of those of her party.”

Liberal Democrat Rural Affairs Spokesperson Tim Farron added: “Farmers across the country are incredibly worried that the UK is about to be flooded with poor quality food undercutting their high quality produce.

“It doesn't need to be this way. Liberal Democrats back British farming and want to work in partnership with our farmers to help cut greenhouse gas emissions, support the recovery of our natural environment all while continuing to produce the food that fills our cupboards.”