SIR — May I express my thanks to the support NFU West Group experienced on the Bournemouth Labour Conference Farmers' Rally.

It is without doubt that we in rural areas are very worried at the present Government's attitude towards British agriculture.

The double standards regarding controls on animal welfare and traceability throughout the EU and third countries takes some believing. Perhaps even more unbelievable is that some of the UK supermarket chains think that they can pull the wool over consumers' eyes.

Unless we see an about turn by the present Government, Exmoor farms will be run either by large farming companies or part-time farmers. This in turn will change the face of farming and Exmoor as we know it today.

There will be a loss of skills, support businesses and the energetic community spirit we see today.

So thank you to the following businesses who helped pay for the bus — Gliddons of Williton, Dunkery Services of Exford, Badcock and Everard of Washford, Gerald David Butchers of Minehead, Gordon Newman of Timberscombe, Mole Valley Farmers at South Molton, White Lodge Vet Clinic in Minehead, Exmoor Farmers Market and Exmoor Suckled Calf Association.

If you are off to the supermarket today, please ask if it's British!

Richard Webber,

Chairman,

NFU West Group.