As the festive season approaches, there’s no better time to celebrate the incredible talent and hard work of our local artisans and food producers. Across
West Sussex, local pop-up markets are brimming with artisan goods, from freshly baked bread and locally sourced meat to handcrafted gifts. These markets are a great way to support the people who keep our rural economy thriving. Every pound spent within our local economy helps to directly sustain jobs and preserve vital aspects of rural life.
As many of you will already know last month, I held another of my Farm to Fork meetings. These meetings are a vital opportunity to hear first-hand the challenges and opportunities facing those who keep our countryside thriving. I recognise the farming industry is facing major challenges, and I will continue to fight for farmers across the constituency to help ensure they can continue producing the high-quality food and stewardship of the countryside we all depend on.
Another issue I know is causing concern is the future of our local Post Offices. They are more than just places to send parcels — they provide a vital lifeline for many residents. With the Government’s Green Paper on the future of the Post Office network now out for consultation, I have responded to the national consultation on Post Office services and recently hosted a roundtable with community representatives, and Postmasters from across the Arundel and South constituency, to ensure your voices are heard. Keeping postal services accessible and open is essential to maintaining connectivity and convenience in every village, and I will ensure I remain vocal on this issue.
Andrew Griffith is the Member of Parliament for Arundel and South Downs
Contact details: Andrew Griffith MP, House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA
Email: Andrew.griffith.mp@parliament.uk Website: www.andrewgriffith.uk