I spent much of this week learning about some of the key industries that drive our economy and jobs in the Chichester constituency. I had a really interesting day with the West Sussex Growers Association and a number of their members ranging from specialist family businesses to multinational companies. The commercial horticulture industry produces over £1 billion per year in sales of fruit, veg, salads, herbs and plants. We are home to the biggest pepper grower in the UK and the last large-scale begonia grower! Across West Sussex alone the industry employs 9000 people, including many workers from the European Union. If you haven’t seen one of these mega glasshouses on the manhood peninsula, I would highly recommend it and the businesses are happy to welcome school visits.
The area around Chichester is the ideal location for horticulture, as it has the highest winter light levels and one of the best year-round climates in the UK. Crops are grown all year round in 450 acres of glasshouses and 350 acres of polythene structures. The technology is sophisticated and the scale is mind boggling as row after row of perfect basil and red peppers stretch out as far as the eye can see. I have worked in many industries but never in food or farming so it was particularly fascinating to hear about the micro sized beneficial bugs that are released to get rid of more harmful pests – an area of science and research that is new to me but significant in terms of growth and investment. We had the opportunity to discuss the industry concerns that need to be considered during the Brexit negotiations and about the need to invest in upgrading the A27 to support the commercial growing business.
I also had the opportunity to meet with some of the fishermen down in Selsey this week, including the President of the National Federation of Fishermen’s Organisations. Fishing is vital to Selsey and the fishermen are keen to get a better deal for British fishing as we leave the EU which will help rejuvenate key coastal communities. I also picked up some fresh Selsey crab which was absolutely delicious!