A Cumbrian MP has pledged to listen to farmers and advocate for their interests in Parliament following a meeting in his constituency.
Markus Campbell-Savours, the Labour MP for Penrith and Solway, met with local farmers for a roundtable discussion hosted by Nic Renison, an England Steering Group member of the Nature Friendly Farming Network (NFFN).
Nic, who with her husband Paul runs a herd of Aberdeen Angus cattle and egg-laying hens near Penrith, brought together a diverse cross-section of the Cumbrian agricultural community – from dairy, beef and sheep farmers to accountants – alongside representatives from local conservation organisations.
Discussions covered a wide range of topics, from national issues such as the inheritance tax to local challenges like housing. Farmers also highlighted the need to reduce agricultural run-off to improve water quality and called for funding schemes that support long-term planning. There was a strong emphasis on increasing support for nature-based solutions and helping farmers transition to more sustainable practices. The need for a fairer deal for farmers within the supply chain was also discussed at the meeting.
Nic said: “It was a very open and honest discussion, with a proactive, positive and solutions-focused tone. It was important to hear different views and experiences to help unite the rural community in Cumbria.
“We were able to discuss the vital connection between food production and the environment – we cannot look after one without the other. We also talked about the pressing housing challenges that are preventing young people and new entrants from becoming farmers and settling in areas like this. I’m grateful that Markus took the time to listen and is keen to keep the conversation going.”
Markus has pledged to continue working with the group of farmers, encouraging them to share detailed questions on agricultural issues that he can raise with ministers and civil servants.
Nicola Sansom, Director of Policy and Engagement at Hope for the Future, who co-organised the event, added: “This meeting was a great example of local people who are passionate about nature-friendly farming coming together with their MP to share ideas on improving policy and practice.
“This is what democracy looks like – exactly the kind of engagement we need to tackle the climate crisis and build a food, health and farming system fit for the future.”
Markus Campbell-Savours MP concluded: “It was a pleasure to meet this trailblazing group of farmers, who have made significant changes to transition towards lower-impact, lower-input farming. Their work is helping to sustain food production here in Cumbria while adapting to climate change. It was inspiring to see how farming and nature can successfully co-exist.”
