“No better definition” of the national interest – Carmichael leads future of farming debate

Orkney and Shetland MP, Alistair Carmichael, has today led a debate in the House of Commons on the future of farming. Mr Carmichael opened and closed the debate, which saw MPs from all parties discuss issues facing farmers including changes to inheritance tax, fairer farmgate prices, climate disruption, future trade deals and other issues. 

Closing the debate, Mr Carmichael referenced a letter sent to Orcadian farmer Charles Paterson by the Prime Minister David Lloyd George during the First World War, speaking of the “vital importance” of farmers to the war effort, shared with him by Douglas Paterson, a seventh-generation farmer who still works the same farm as his great-grandfather.

Mr Carmichael is Chair of the House of Commons Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Select Committee.

In closing the debate, Mr Carmichael said:

“Since I opened this debate, Douglas Paterson, a seventh-generation farmer in my constituency, has sent me a copy of a letter addressed to his great-grandfather from 10 Downing Street, dated 5 March 1917. It states:

“‘Dear Sir, 

“‘We have now reached a crisis in the war when to ensure victory, the heroism of our armies at the Front must be backed by the self-sacrifice and tireless labour of everyone at home. To this end the production of each quarter of wheat and oats, and of each bushel of potatoes is of vital importance.’

“The letter finishes by saying that ‘the Government is confident that Farmers will at once step forward and do all in their power to utilise their services to the best advantage. The farmers of this country can defeat the German submarine and when they do so they destroy the last hope of the Prussian.’

“It is signed ‘D. Lloyd George’.

“The fact that we can stand in this Chamber today and debate this matter is a testament to the fact that Charles Paterson and his generation did step forward, and it is why we have a solemn and historic duty to ensure that his great-grandson can continue to do the same. I can think of no better definition of what is meant by ‘national interest’.”