House of Commons · Westminster Hall
21 July 2022 · 6 other contributors · 10,582 words
Opened by Richard Holden Con Basildon and Billericay
Responding minister: Steve Double
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
Richard Holden raised concerns about agricultural and county shows in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key points
Key requests to Government
The MP asks the government to ensure that agricultural shows can thrive into the future, providing a platform for innovation, investment, and tourism in rural economies. He urges visitors to anchor their travels with visits to these shows this summer.
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.
Opened the debate
The MP is concerned about the impact of COVID-19 on agricultural shows in rural Britain, noting that over 7 million people annually attend such events. He highlights the importance of these shows for local communities, their role in showcasing farming and agriculture, and their contribution to economic activity. The MP also mentions the need for productive farming measures and capital investment to support farmers and maintain food security.
Agricultural shows play a crucial role in rural Britain, providing farmers with community and an opportunity to promote their stock and produce. The hon. Member highlighted the importance of these events for both farmers and the public, mentioning the Otley Show as one of the longest-running single-day agricultural shows in the UK. He expressed concern over the lack of support from the Government during crises such as inflation, labour shortages, and issues with the environmental land management scheme (ELM). The hon. Member also discussed food security challenges caused by rising gas prices, fertiliser costs, and worker shortfalls.
He mentioned the importance of agricultural shows in rural areas, highlighting their economic benefits. Congratulates Richard Holden on securing the debate, highlights the importance of agricultural and county shows to the economy and rural communities. Mentions that approximately 140,000 people attended the Great Yorkshire Show last week, and notes the significant commercial aspect with a strong retail presence.
Commends the importance of agricultural shows in rural life, highlighting their role since the agricultural revolution. Mentions the founding year and purpose of the Cardiganshire Agricultural Society. Praises the continuation of sharing best practices through local committees and societies. Discusses the impact of covid-19 on agricultural events in Ceredigion and the variety of activities now offered at shows to engage both young people and visitors.
Agrees with Stephen Crabb but also suggests taking a more liberal view towards migration policy to address workforce shortages in the agricultural sector. The MP discusses tourism's importance to rural areas and the need to maintain agricultural shows' connection with local communities. Across Scotland, agricultural and county shows are vital to the cultural fabric of local communities. However, issues such as Brexit, the conflict in Ukraine, and the pandemic continue to worry farmers. The Scottish Government has launched a national strategy for economic transformation, established a food insecurity taskforce, and invested over £200 million through the environment, natural resources and agriculture strategic research programme.
My hon. Friend highlights the importance of agriculture remaining at the heart of county shows, emphasizing that food production must remain a priority in UK agricultural strategies. The MP agrees that farming is important for food security and the economy, highlighting the need for productive measures as seen in other countries. Stressed the importance of county agricultural shows, particularly Pembrokshire's show, which is a key part of rural life and community identity. Highlighted concerns about land being converted to tree planting at the expense of farming.
Highlights the importance of supporting shows like Anglesey's Agricultural Show, which draws over 50,000 people annually, and emphasizes the role of volunteers in its success.
Government Response
Steve DoubleIt is a pleasure to speak under your chairmanship, Dr Huq. I thank my hon. Friend the Member for North West Durham (Mr Holden) for securing this important debate. We have had a virtual tour of agricultural shows across the country during this debate, from the Wolsingham Show to the Ynys Môn Show and many more, welcoming over 7 million visitors annually. Agricultural shows provide vital links between rural and urban Britain, offering networking opportunities for farmers and education for the public about farming life and food production. They also support small businesses and local economies. The pandemic forced shows to stop for two years but it has been welcome seeing them return this summer with strong attendance. Shows are of great value in connecting rural communities and educating the wider public. They play an important role in promoting agriculture and land-based activities, providing income and employment for small businesses such as exhibitors and marquee manufacturers, local accommodation providers, caterers and equipment hire providers. The economic benefit goes beyond the agricultural sector in supporting the rural economy. Additionally, they afford broader benefits to the environment by showcasing sustainable farming practices. Shows provide vital feedback on new schemes and grants such as the Sustainable Farming Incentive, helping many more farmers than just those we meet in person to understand the benefits. I would like to reinforce the point about thanking volunteers who make these shows possible. The hon. Member for Ceredigion (Ben Lake) made the point that shows give a great opportunity to young people. This is important because it teaches our young people about where food comes from and the importance of farming and environmental protection. Shows can also play an important role in getting the message out about farmers' commitment to sustainability, climate change adaptation and protecting the natural environment.