TWO leading Conservative Cumbrian politicians have met with NFU members to discuss the organisation's rural manifesto.
Mark Jenkinson MP, and Mike Johnson, the candidate for the Police Crime and Fire Commissioner, joined representatives to discuss issues including rural crime, utilities, and food security.
Mark said: “This was a hugely positive meeting. Local farmers know that I’m on their side – and that I will raise all of their suggestions with Government.
“Farmers and rural businesses know that they have in me a strong champion in Westminster.
“My ministerial colleagues and I recognise the valuable work of our farmers across the country and the Government continues to support our farming industry and our rural communities and it is committed to maintaining the annual £2.4 billion farming budget in England over this parliament.”
Mike Johnson, who serves as the deputy Police, Crime and Fire Commissioner, has been working closely with the Chief Constable to introduce a dedicated Rural Crime Team, alongside dedicated Firearms response units and roads policing teams.
The Rural Crime Team has seized over £100,000 worth of stolen plant and equipment, and 105 stolen quad bikes have been recovered.
He has also overseen the creation of dedicated local rural WhatsApp groups, so that intelligence is shared as it happens.
Mike said: “I am delighted that we are making steady progress.
“I won’t rest on my laurels - I know there is more work to do, which is why it is important to engage with NFU members to help shape policy at a local and national level.”
