The big news this week has been the announcement of the Government’s long awaited food strategy.
Last week I met with farmers from across Fylde to discuss the challenges they face and what they believe the Government should be doing to support food producers. I am grateful to them for their hard work but also for their honesty and I left the meeting in no doubt as to the pressing issues across our rural communities.
The war in Ukraine has served as a reminder of how fragile supply chains can be and highlighted the importance of our own food security. It is important we support our farmers to grow for Britain, as the Government has said. Like the rest of us they face the very real issue of rising prices, against a backdrop of changes to how farmers are funded. They want to get on with what they do best, putting food on our tables, a message I have sent loud and clear to Ministers.
It was a pleasure to welcome the Prime Minister to the Fylde coast, where he revealed a major shake up of housing policy including a bold ambition to boost home ownership and to extend the Right to Buy.
Perhaps most important for people here in Fylde was the news of major leasehold reforms. There are any leaseholders living on new build estates and in flats in Fylde and I know how important it is to secure the protections they need. The Prime Minister pledged to make it easier for people to buy their freeholds, a huge step forward. I now look forward to seeing the legislation brought forward to make this happen.
We had a sunny, if rather breezy, weekend for another packed schedule of local events. Thanks must go to all those involved in organising Kirkham Club Day, Lowther Flower and Garden Festival and the Elswick Rose Queen parade. The fun continues this weekend with Freckleton Club Day and Singleton Gala. Fylde also has the honour of hosting The Amateur Championships, one of the UK’s most prestigious golf tournaments at Royal Lytham and St Annes. I know the club will put on a great event, demonstrating Fylde is ready and eager to welcome back The Open.
