A NEW Government initiative which could see £400 million of new business for British famers and food producers has been backed by Wyre Forest's MP.

The Plan for Public Procurement, announced by Prime Minister, David Cameron and Environment Secretary, Elizabeth Truss, will introduce a new simplified food and drink buying standard.

From 2017, the plan is for Government to commit to buying fresh, locally-sourced, seasonal food.

The public sector will also be encouraged and supported in using the new framework with the expectation that all institutions will serve locally-reared meats and freshly-picked fruit and vegetables.

Conservative Mark Garnier is now urging schools and hospitals across Worcestershire to follow the initiative.

“This is a fantastic initiative, which could be hugely beneficial to British farmers and food producers,” he said.

“The public sector spends £600 million on imported produce, of which there is a potential for £400 million to be produced by British producers.

“This could be great news for farmers across Worcestershire and I would encourage all local organisations and schools to back this project.

“Not only will they be supporting British farmers but they will benefit from locally-provided high quality food.”