FOE has been lobbying for this Bill for some time, and when on December 14th Richard Burden, MP for Northfield, came first in the last Private Members' Ballot, it was a perfect opportunity to try to get the Bill adopted as this would guarantee the Bill parliamentary time in the following session. It emerged that his constituency surgery was the next day and we attended with letters from his constituents and reams of information; produced a petition and leaflets; sought pressure from everyone from local organic shops to our supporters on email (an invaluable campaign tool - see page 2!); held stalls at the Farmers' Market... In the few days before Christmas a huge response was generated - especially letters and emails from constituents - and over 100 signatures on a petition was delivered by hand to his office in Northfield. The MP later commented that the campaign took "all the credit" for being the "best original lobby". Even his partner signed Birmingham FOE's petition and also praised the campaign.
However it has to be admitted he did not adopt the Bill! But our efforts still had considerable effect: he gave us a statement in strong support of the Bill (perhaps give or take a target or two, to which his Party does not yet subscribe) and has forwarded all correspondence to agricultural ministers. Meanwhile the Bill was adopted by Welsh MP Simon Thomas who came 15th in the ballot - ensuring its continued presence in Government procedure for the next session. After the general election we will be able to continue pushing the Bill, with its growing support. Thanks to everyone who helped us in our lobbying.
Nick Whittingham