Callum Anderson MP’s maiden speech in the House of Commons recognised the work of Edgcott and Winslow YFC and pledged support for YFCs and British farming.
The YFC mention follows on from connections the club made with the labour MP for Buckingham and Bletchley over the summer.
Mr. Anderson joined a club meeting in June at the Ives family farm, where members explored the Winslow herd of Aberdeen Angus cattle, learned about the farm's history, and discovered insights into their livestock haulage business.
It was also an opportunity for YFC members to ask the MP questions.
James Cook, Club Chair, said: “I’d like to thank Mr Anderson again for taking time out of his evening to come to our meeting and listen to what we had to say and hear us voice our concerns, it truly meant a lot.
“He was very approachable and understanding of our worries and concerns and when asked questions, he didn’t avoid answering anything.”
Conversations with the MP certainly paid off, as Mr Anderson announced in the House of Commons that he was an advocate for the club in his speech that was shared on BBC Parliament.
An extract from the speech is as follows:
“Farmers and rural businesses across north Buckinghamshire work tirelessly to feed our nation, using the latest methods to produce high-quality food while safeguarding our local environment, as I saw first hand when I met the Edgcott and Winslow Young Farmers earlier this summer. I am committed to being their advocate in the House, ensuring that they receive the support and recognition that they deserve.”
Despite concerns from some members that nothing would come from their meeting with Mr Anderson, James said the club were delighted to be mentioned in his maiden speech.
“Not only did Mr Anderson get farming mentioned in Parliament, but he also gave our club a mention. It has certainly restored some faith back in our community, even though there’s still a long way to go,” added James.
The announcement shows the impact YFCs can have by reaching out to local MPs to discuss the issues affecting young people and the farming sector.
Buckinghamshire Vice Chair Ben Newbury said: “It was absolutely brilliant to hear the name of our Young Farmers’ Club and Young Farmers in general brought up in the Houses of Parliament.
"Since the news broke we feel there has been a genuine uplift in spirit and morale from all the agricultural sector workers within our club and county. We hope that it brings a slight uplift of spirit and morale to other young farmers and others working in the agricultural sector as well.”
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