Government risks ‘decimating’ rural communities ahead of Spending Review

Liberal Democrat MP for Hazel Grove constituency Lisa Smart has warned the Government risks ‘decimating’ rural communities, amidst rumours the nature-friendly farming budget is set to be slashed in the upcoming Spending Review. 

The likes of Marple, Mellor and Romiley have a strong rural heritage, and the MP recently met with members of the NFU to discuss their concerns about the lack of Government support for the industry.

Many farmers, both locally and across the country, are struggling after recent trade deals which have undermined the industry and a cost-of-living crisis. 

The Liberal Democrats are now urging the Government to protect our rural communities and the environment by ruling out cuts to the farming budget.

Liberal Democrat MP for Hazel Grove constituency, Lisa Smart said: “We are proud of our local farming heritage. Many farmers are barely making ends meet, working for half the minimum wage, yet they still tirelessly maintain our countryside, allowing us all to enjoy its beauty and food produced to the highest standards. 

“The Government is really letting down our rural communities. If the Government goes ahead with these cuts, they risk the future of farming in this country and with it, domestic food production and the restoration of nature. 

“The Government’s failure to understand rural communities is so disappointing. At the spending review, these cuts cannot come to pass. The local Liberal Democrats will continue to stand up for our farmers.”