← Back to Westminster Hall Debates

Agricultural and County Shows

21 July 2022

Lead MP

Richard Holden
Basildon and Billericay
Con

Responding Minister

Steve Double

Tags

EconomyClimateForeign AffairsBusiness & TradeBenefits & WelfareAgriculture & Rural Affairs
Word Count: 10582
Other Contributors: 6

At a Glance

Richard Holden raised concerns about agricultural and county shows in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.

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.

How the Debate Unfolded

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

Lead Contributor

Basildon and Billericay
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.

Government Response

Steve Double
Government Response
It 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.
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.