Robert Sturdy

2 December 2009

ROBERT STURDY TAKES PAUL MCCARTNEY TO TASK OVER HIS MEAT REDUCTION CAMPAIGN

Eating less meat does not mean less climate change, said Eastern Region MEP Robert Sturdy, in response to a “Meat Free Monday” campaign which Sir Paul McCartney is taking  to Brussels tomorrow.

Sir Paul’s campaign calls for everyone to avoid eating meat one day every week in order to fight climate change.

Mr Sturdy, who sits on the Agriculture Committee, disagrees with the issues raised by the ex-Beatle.

He said:  “In the UK our livestock production systems are already highly sustainable and are essential for our future food security.  Eating less meat will not mean less climate change.  Such a simplified message takes no account of the fact that much of our agricultural land in the UK is unsuitable for arable and vegetable crops.  It is clear that Sir Paul does not understand livestock production.

“Focussing on a single issue as a way of saving the planet is irresponsible and will be counterproductive in the long run.  It is likely that we will become more dependant on other imported sources of protein, such as soya, which will lead to an increase in the amount of rainforest felled to make way for cultivation.  What we should be doing is investing in agricultural research and development to enable farmers to produce food more efficiently with less impact.”

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