ESTHER McVey has welcomed the Government's continued support for farmers in Cheshire and across the country.

The Tatton MP attended a Farm to Fork Summit in Downing Street – the second event of its kind – where she discussed what more needs to be done improve UK food security.

The summit follows the announcement from Prime Minister Rishi Sunak of new plans to support farmers and grown the UK's farming and food sector, through improved food security and boosting production.

Ms McVey said: “Our farmers work tirelessly to ensure food supply and it is right we do everything possible to support them and future-proof British farming.

"I am passionate about buying British and buying local. The measures announced by the Prime Minister will help increase domestic production and ensure a strong farming sector for years to come."

Measures set out in the plans include a blueprint for increasing UK fruit and vegetable production and introducing legislation to ensure fairness and transparency in contracts so all farmers get paid fairly for their produce.

Currently just 17 per cent of fruit and 55 per cent of vegetables consumed in the UK is grown in the country.

Knutsford Guardian: Prime Minister Rishi Sunak meeting farmersPrime Minister Rishi Sunak meeting farmers (Image: Supplied)

The Government said it plans to support the industry by cutting red tape, tackling export barriers, and providing extra investment to get crops in the ground faster.

A UK Food Security Index will also be introduced which will allow government and the industry to monitor external factors impacting food security, such as extreme weather conditions or international factors such as Russia’s war on Ukraine.

Ms McVey added: “I regularly have meetings with ministerial colleagues to discuss farming matters and issues of concern raised by my Cheshire farmers.

"I am delighted government is showing its continued support for the sector and doing everything possible to support our domestic food security.

"I know from talking to my farmers how difficult things have been and what they want to see happen, and I will keep raising these issues at the highest level of government.”