Borders MP Michael Moore has challenged the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs to provide an assurance that long-term support will be provided to hill farmers to see them through the current economic conditions.

Speaking in the House of Commons at DEFRA Questions, Mr Moore also urged the Government to obtain greater flexibility within the Common Agricultural Policy for hill-farming communities.

He said:

“The hill farmers in my constituency are in an extremely precarious economic situation. Many are being forced to reduce the size of their flocks and herds, or even to contemplate getting out of farming altogether.

“Does the Secretary of State recognise that these farmers are vital to the well-being of their local communities and the management of our environment? If so, will he ensure that in the next fundamental review of the CAP we retain enough flexibility for the different parts of the United Kingdom to give long-term support to hill farmers?”

Hilary Benn responded by paying tribute to hill farmers, whom he described as being some of the toughest farmers he has ever met, and agreeing to press for further reform of the CAP for the benefit of hill farmers.