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Defra Minister challenged on Market support
Tuesday 11 March 2008
Last night saw the Annual Meeting of the All Party Parliamentary Markets Group with some changes in the officers of the Group . Ann Coffey, Stockport MP, moved from Secretary to Chairman while Dr.Brian Iddon, Bolton SE MP, became the new Secretary. A number of prominent members of both Houses were confirmed as Vice-Chairmen of the Group.
There was a review of the last year’s activities and it was encouraging to note that the Group had been successful in raising a number of important issues in front of government spokespersons. Guest speaker at the meeting, pictured above, was Joan Ruddock, Defra Minister with special responsibility for the green agenda, who praised the contribution of markets with particular emphasis on the role played by markets in keeping town and communities alive. The Minister highlighted a number of issues commenting on the increased awareness of environmental issues. She said markets play a vital role in tackling the packaging problems and that the government wants to see people bringing their own bags. People want to know where food comes from and the ability of traders and consumers to communicate in a market provides real social benefits.
Defra has supported Farmers Markets but Nabma’s Chief Executive, Graham Wilson, challenged the Minister on Defra support for the markets industry as a whole and said that Nabma needs visible government recognition of the value of markets so that local authorities will see the importance of investing in markets. Reference was made to the PPS 6 Planning Guidance which recognizes the value of markets and Nabma’s Chief Executive said we need more examples of such encouragement. The Minister said she was happy to take on board the comments and invited Nabma to make further representations on the issue which she could consider with other government colleagues.Nabma will be following this up.
events round up
Thursday 27th November
Wendy Fair Seminar Read More
Friday 5th December
Nabma Wholesale Forum Read More
Tuesday 9th December
Improving Staff Communication Read More
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