South Craven MP Julian Smith has welcomed a Government commitment to listen to the views of farmers.

He said it was an important year for the farming community ahead of changes to the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), a system of subsidies and programmes.

“The new CAP is implemented next year and ministers are working hard to support farming and the agricultural industry,” said Mr Smith. “Ensuring our farmers and agricultural community have a strong and sustainable future is vital.”

The CAP covers farming, environmental measures and rural development, and controls EU agricultural markets.