Lib Dem leader Nick Clegg supports buying British

1.40.00pm GMT Thu 13th Nov 2008

Nick and Duncan visited Wiltshire College at Lackham.

Prospective Lib Dem MP Duncan Hames has welcomed Nick Clegg MP, Leader of the Liberal Democrats on a recent visit to the Chippenham constituency.

Nick and Duncan visited Wiltshire College, Lackham, where young people study agriculture and other land-based courses. After meeting students and being taken on a tour of the farm, Nick Clegg spoke about his wish to see the public made more aware of information on British products, so that they are confident in buying British.

Nick stressed that this was not about discriminating against foreign imports but supporting the local economy and improving the environment. He said, "What I would like to see is shoppers buying more locally-produced goods, and having more information about where these come from".

As part of the visit to the college, Nick enjoyed a spot of tractor driving. He joked, "I really did enjoy driving the tractor, it was a childhood ambition. I did think about driving off into the sunset, and I've never done a three-point turn in a foot and a half of mud before!"

Duncan, local councillor Jon Hubbard and Nick talk with a local trader in Melksham.

Nick and Duncan also visited Melksham to meet traders and hear their concerns. Duncan commented, "Buying local produce and shopping locally keeps more of our money in the Wiltshire economy. I regularly shop at the village store near my home in Holt."

"Local traders need our support in these difficult times for the economy. There are already too many empty premises in our town centres."