Dairy APPG elects new chair
Simon Hoare MP (Conservative, North Dorset) has been elected chair of the Dairy All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) following the group’s AGM on 20 July.
Hoare was nominated by outgoing chair and new assistant government whip Heather Wheeler MP (Conservative, South Derbyshire).
Steve Double MP (Conservative, St Austell & Newquay), Angela Smith MP (Labour, Penistone & Stocksbridge), Steven Paterson MP (SNP, Stirling) and Margaret Ritchie MP (SDLP, South Down) were elected as vice chairs of the group.
Hoare says, “I’m delighted to be the new chair of the Dairy All-Party Parliamentary Group. The dairy industry is a crucial part of the UK economy and there is still much we can do to support it efficiently and effectively.
“In the wake of the EU referendum, many questions remain unanswered and both government and parliament have a colossal task ahead. With much uncertainty about the future, we must make sure that the dairy industry’s interests are protected throughout the negotiations and we will make it very clear that it cannot be traded.
“We had a very productive and successful year under Heather Wheeler’s chairmanship and I look forward to leading the group and supporting the dairy industry from farm to fridge.”
The Dairy APPG will also follow up on its work on the flawed Eatwell Guide and will keep promoting the role of dairy in a healthy and balanced diet.
