FARMERS' MARKETS

EDM number 1306 in 2001-02, proposed by Peter Ainsworth on 14/05/2002.

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.

This motion has been signed by a total of 90 MPs.