FARMERS' MARKETS

Early day motion 1306, tabled 14 May 2002 by Peter Ainsworth (Conservative). Signed by 90 members.

That this House recognises the importance of farmers' markets in giving farmers the opportunity to sell directly to consumers, thus reducing food transport costs and emissions as well as promoting local produce and supporting the declining agricultural economy; notes with concern proposals in the DTLR consultation paper that would introduce burdensome and disproportionate planning regulations on farmers markets; further notes the negative impact of the closure of local abattoirs on farmers markets; is very concerned with the startling 10-fold increase in registration fees for markets organised by local Women's Institute branches; and calls upon the Government to support local food production and promote regional farmers' markets.

Signatures by party: Conservative 57, Labour 11, Liberal Democrat 10, Labour/Co-operative 3, Plaid Cymru 3, UUP 3, Scottish National Party 2, DUP 1.