Community Farming Projects 2023-10-19
2023-10-19
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP inquired about specific steps to support community farms, highlighting the significant social and economic benefits they provide.
What steps her Department is taking to support community farming projects. Figures from a social return on investment study show that every £1 invested in a community farm is worth £9 of community benefits through food production, new skills and community resources. In my constituency, Lauriston Farm is investing in a community orchard and gardens, outdoor learning and a community kitchen to help people pick up new skills and produce affordable food.
I pay tribute to those who are involved in that community project. As the hon. Lady will know, agriculture is devolved to the Scottish Government, and I hope they will use some of the £620 million a year that they are given to support Scottish farmers.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific benefits of community farms and steps needed for maximising their potential were not addressed
Changing Subject To Devolved Government
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP asked about the steps being taken by her Department to support community farms, citing a social return on investment study that highlights significant benefits of such investments.
What steps her Department is taking to support community farming projects. Figures from a social return on investment study show that every £1 invested in a community farm is worth £9 of community benefits through food production, new skills and community resources. In my constituency, Lauriston Farm is investing in a community orchard and gardens, outdoor learning and a community kitchen to help people pick up new skills and produce affordable food.
We welcome community farms in England, because they give local communities a chance to become involved in the countryside. Like any other farm, they may be eligible for a variety of grants enabling smaller farms to be supported more fairly. We have introduced a sustainable farming incentive management payment, and we have also extended the farming in protected landscapes fund until March 2025. The fund is open to farmers in national parks and areas of outstanding natural beauty, allowing them to deliver projects to support nature, climate, people and places.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific benefits of community farms and steps needed for maximising their potential were not addressed
Changing Subject To Devolved Government
Response accuracy