Suffolk County Council has agreed to pass a proposed motion to support local farmers by ensuring all catering at council-organised events is, where possible, sourced from local farmers, committing to always including meat and dairy options alongside plant-based produce.
In addition, Suffolk County Council will commit to further enhancing its partnerships alongside its arable, livestock and dairy farmers, encouraging Suffolk residents to shop locally.
A total of 53 Councillors backed the motion, with three Green Councillors abstaining from the vote.
This motion was proposed by Councillor Richard Rout, deputy leader of Suffolk County Council and seconded by Councillor Andrew Reid, cabinet member for Public Health and Public Protection. According to the Council, the motion aimed to raise awareness of the importance of hardworking farming communities within Suffolk.
Councillor Richard Rout said: “I’m delighted that this motion passed today but it is disappointing that three Green Councillors felt unable to support it. Coming from a farming family, I know first hand just how hard our farmers and growers work to feed and sustain our nation.
"Agriculture and agribusiness are an integral part of our local economy. This motion not only commits us to doubling down on our support for local farmers but also ensures dietary choice at all our events, keeping meat and dairy firmly on the table alongside plant-based options.”
Councillor Andrew Reid said: "We in Suffolk are rightly proud of our fantastic farming community. Through our County Farm estate, which spans over 12,000 acres and contributes over £7 million to the local economy, we have 90 agricultural tenants who do so much for our county. I was delighted to second this motion today and reaffirm our commitment to this vital sector.”
This story was originally published on a previous version of the Meat Management website and so there may be some missing images and formatting issues.
