MP in bid to boost organic farming

14 December 1999



MP in bid to boost organic farming

by Isabel Davies

PARLIAMENTARY time has been found for a new Bill which aims to boost organic farming so it becomes a mainstream method of food production.

North Cornwalls MP Paul Tyler has won the right to introduce a Private Members Bill later this week. It will promote organic food.

The Organics Targets Bill will call for a target and strategy to increase chemical-free farming by providing more support for organic production.

The bill aims to ensure that by 2010 at least 30% of UK farmland and 20% of our food is produced by organic farming systems.

It is supported by a range of groups including the Soil Association, Friends of the Earth, the Pesticides Trust, and Transport and General Workers Union.

Mr Tyler said he was promoting an initiative which would help hard-pressed farmers and encourage greater choice for consumers at the same time.

“It is still a very long shot to get through all the obstacles in the House of Commons and house of Lords to achieve an Act of Parliament.

“However, there is very wide all-party support for this important Bill, so I hope we can persuade the Government to help it on its way.”