Catherine McKinnell, MP for Newcastle North, has recognised the vital contribution that North East farmers make to the economy, our countryside and food production by signing a pledge to Back British Farming at an event held recently in Parliament.

Farming in the North East contributes £251million to the local economy and provides 9,788 jobs – in addition to the safe, affordable food the region’s farmers produce and the local countryside they help to maintain. Farming also plays a vital role in supporting the work of several other industries, such as vets, solicitors, surveyors and feed merchants.

The event in Westminster was organised by the National Farmers’ Union (NFU) as a rallying call to MPs to support British farming during a particularly crucial period for the sector, as the Brexit negotiations begin.

Catherine said:

‘Although I have a city constituency, many parts of Newcastle North are rural and I know just how important it is to support British farmers and their hard work.

‘As one of the sectors that will be most affected by Britain’s withdrawal from the EU, it’s vital that the right future environment is created to ensure our farmers can continue to provide safe and affordable food for consumers, to look after our precious countryside and wildlife, and to sustain a dynamic rural economy.

‘I’m proud to wear the NFU’s Back British Farming badge, and to support the North East’s farmers.’

More information about the NFU’s Back British Farming campaign is available here.