Government must act to safeguard farmers’ futures: The Yorkshire Post says

Agriculture is at heart of this region’s economic life, and it would be utterly unacceptable if an industry that not only puts food of the highest quality on people’s plates, but also looks after the countryside, was to suffer as a result of cheap imports produced to questionable welfare standards.

The Government has the opportunity today to demonstrate its wholehearted support for British farmers when the Trade Bill returns to the Commons after a series of defeats inflicted by the House of Lords. It should seize that opportunity and spell out its unequivocal backing by agreeing to calls to allow Parliament a greater say on future trade deals in order to protect both food standards and the environment.

Yorkshire peer Baroness Anne McIntosh, who has consistently raised the concerns of farmers that they could suffer post-Brexit, is confident that the Government will agree to greater input from Parliament, and it is very much to be hoped that she is correct.

The Government’s position that the Trade and Agriculture Commission should have only an advisory role in scrutinising deals that impact on farmers is not good enough.

The National Farmers Union is right when it says MPs should have a meaningful role in approving trade deals. Without that, there is a serious risk that harm could be inflicted on agriculture.

It is welcome that there is increasing cross-party consensus on the need for Parliament to be given a greater say on trade deals, and that will hopefully persuade the Government to agree. It is in the national interest to do everything possible to support farming and ensure it is not jeopardised by unfair competition. The Government must act accordingly.

Support The Yorkshire Post and become a subscriber today. Your subscription will help us to continue to bring quality news to the people of Yorkshire. In return, you’ll see fewer ads on site, get free access to our app and receive exclusive members-only offers. Click here to subscribe.