A parliamentary group which aims to protect the best interests of British hill farmers is to be re-instated after disbanding back in 2015.
The National Farmers' Union and Westmorland and Lonsdale MP, Tim Farron are to re-instate the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Hill Farming.
The group, which the former Liberal Democrat leader chaired for ten years, disbanded back in 2015.
But now, with the uncertainty surrounding Britain's future relationship with the European Union and the Government's new Agriculture Bill, it is felt that a group is needed now more than ever to stand up for hill farmers.
When the group was active, it ensured the plight of hill farmers was recognised in Parliament and frequently put pressure on Defra ministers to maintain support.
The all-party group will host an official re-launch later in January where they will publish a report on the future of hill farming in the UK.
Farron said: “With the Government planning to remove direct payments which are a lifeline to so many hill farmers, and with the threat of leaving the European Union with no deal still on the table, the future for hill farming has never been more uncertain.
“That's why it's vital that there is a group in Parliament to speak up for the interests of hard-working British hill farmers who are so crucial both to the national economy and to the environment.”
“I look forward to working with MPs from all parties, and the NFU, to help secure the most stable future for the industry and a better deal for farmers here in Cumbria and across the country,” he said.
