Jim McMahon
Main Page: Jim McMahon (Labour (Co-op) - Oldham West, Chadderton and Royton)Department Debates - View all Jim McMahon's debates with the Leader of the House
(1 day, 10 hours ago)
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Sir Alan Campbell
It seems longer, but we are 11 days into this particular crisis and, as I said, the Government have not been shy in bringing forward statements where necessary on particular aspects of it. I will raise the hon. Gentleman’s concerns with Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Ministers who, I am sure, are watching the situation very carefully. Should the need arise to update the House, I am sure that that is what they will do.
Jim McMahon (Oldham West, Chadderton and Royton) (Lab/Co-op)
There are around 430 farmer-owned co-operatives in the UK and around 150,000 farmer members, with a turnover of £10 billion a year. They deliver high quality food produced the highest welfare and environmental standards. With food security being national security and the Government being committed to doubling the size of the co-operative sector, will the Leader of the House grant time for a debate on expanding the agricultural co-operative sector, so that it can play a role in strengthening the UK’s food production?
Sir Alan Campbell
I pay tribute to the co-operative movement for the work it does in this regard. It is a very important part of the story of food production. Should my hon. Friend seek a debate on these matters, I am sure there are many Members across the House who would want to join in to discuss what is a very important subject.