Tiverton MP Rachel Gilmour gains new platform for farmers’ issues

Tiverton & Minehead MP Rachel Gilmour has been elected as vice chair of the all-party parliamentary group for farming.

Ms Gilmour was the first female director at the National Farmers’ Union in over 100 years, as well as previously having had the role of head of strategy at the Environment Agency. She hopes that her experience in working with farmers and the environment outside of politics will be a force for good in Parliament.

In a press statement, Ms Gilmour wrote: “All-party parliamentary groups are an efficacious way of campaigning in Parliament, as it serves as an additional platform to highlight specific topics with other Members from across the House to propel concerns forward. It is hoped that in Rachel Gilmour’s new role, local farming issues specific to Tiverton and Minehead can raised with Members from all political parties.”

Rachel Gilmour said: “I’m delighted to have been elected as Vice Chair of the APPG for Farming. I am truly committed to playing my part for Tiverton and Minehead, and through this role I have a direct route to speak up for our farmers and their communities.”

“Farming and farming policy has been a huge part of my life, and I am excited to get working on our local issues to ensure that our farmers have the resources, infrastructure, and support they need.

“There has never been a more important time for strong, experienced, Liberal Democrat voices to have representation on this APPG, and with Rachel’s expertise, dedication and principled standpoints, she embraces the challenge of holding the Government to account on behalf of the farming community in Tiverton and Minehead.”

South West chairman of the Conservative Rural Forum also reacted to Ms Gilmour’s appointment adding: “Like so many Liberal Democrats, Rachel Gilmour talks a good game, but real action is what farmers need. Her support alongside Diane Abbott and Jeremy Corbyn for higher taxes tells us all we need to know about her motives and judgment.

“A position on an APPG is only as valuable as the commitment behind it, and given her record, I’m concerned this will amount to more posturing than practical support for farmers in Tiverton & Minehead.”

Ms Gilmour also announced that she will be sitting on the public accounts committee which scrutinises public expenditure.

She added: “I’m delighted to join the Public Accounts Committee to help oversee the UK's finances. My Lib Dem colleagues, and I will ensure value for money, champion public services, and scrutinise those working on behalf of the public. I’m committed to playing my part for Tiverton & Minehead, and all who put their trust in the Liberal Democrats.”