← Back to Westminster Hall Debates

Food and Farming: Devon and Cornwall

23 February 2022

Lead MP

Geoffrey Cox
Torridge and Tavistock
Con

Responding Minister

Victoria Prentis

Tags

BrexitAgriculture & Rural Affairs
Word Count: 13676
Other Contributors: 13

At a Glance

Geoffrey Cox raised concerns about food and farming: devon and cornwall in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.

Key Requests to Government:

Cox calls for greater investment in farmers and the creation of new markets for British produce around the world through a bold vision of a British agricultural export agency. He also urges the Government to ensure that policies are designed to lift farmers and support them in making the most of market opportunities, while maintaining a conviction at the heart of government regarding the importance of British farming.

How the Debate Unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:

Lead Contributor

Torridge and Tavistock
Opened the debate
Cox is concerned about the unpredictability and uncertainty faced by agriculture in Devon and Cornwall due to the implications of the Agriculture Act 2020 and changes in trading relationships after Brexit. He highlights the significant proportion of Devon's economy that relies on food production and raises concerns over the reduction of direct payments to farmers, which could lead to a loss of £10,000 per farm without these payments. Cox also mentions the growing chorus of concern from industry bodies like the Tenant Farmers Association about current government plans, noting the potential impact on upland farming.

Government Response

Victoria Prentis
Government Response
Addressed multiple points raised during the debate on food and farming in Devon and Cornwall. Acknowledged concerns about agricultural transition and assured support through improved payment schemes, new policies for tenant farmers, efforts to address issues in the pig industry, and the launch of three new exciting schemes open to farmers including the animal health and welfare pathway, farming resilience fund, and farming investment fund. Highlighted the importance of buying British products.
Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy

About Westminster Hall Debates

Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.