Cumbria seeks Whitehall voice

Sheep rounded up into pens for testing

A delegation from the British Chamber of Commerce is to visit Cumbria to see how the foot-and-mouth crisis has devastated the local economy.

The county has been one of the areas worst affected by the epidemic and businesses are calling for help to stem financial losses.

Cumbria Crisis Alliance, a local group formed to help those worst affected, is concerned that the region is not receiving the aid promised by the government.

During a meeting on Monday, the Alliance's members will urge the Chamber of Commerce to take up their cause in a bid to help those in greatest need.

We need a voice in Whitehall, a voice with power that can put forward our feelings

John Walker, Cumbria Crisis Alliance

Cumbria's livestock markets are still closed and the tourist trade in the Lake District has suffered a 50% drop in activity.

John Walker, from Cumbria Crisis Alliance, said businesses have already suffered and many more are facing bankruptcy this winter unless they receive assistance.

He said: "In the first phase of the crisis, the businesses went under because they weren't allowed to do what they actually do, for example, a gentleman who sold canoeing and outdoor equipment, but how can you sell a canoe when the rivers are shut?

"His whole business went."

Lobbying initiative

He explained how sections of the hotel and catering industry cannot afford to retain key members of staff because of a drop in bookings.

He wants the Chamber of Commerce to lobby the government for money.

The area giving greatest cause for concern is how the already beleaguered community will survive the winter.

He said: "There aren't going to be enough resources to get through the winter season and trade out of the problem the other side.

Tourism industry is struggling

"Also we need recognition for the fact that there is a huge psychological and stress burden on everyone in the county and nationally that's involved in the foot-and-mouth crisis and we need funds injected into the health service, for example, to support the people who we are going to have to call to help us through it."

The Chamber of Commerce delegation will visit the Longtown area, which has been seriously affected by the epidemic.

Members will also meet people from various businesses that have been affected.

"We need a voice in Whitehall, a voice with power that can put forward our feelings," said Mr Walker.

"After all, we are an industry that generates a huge amount of revenue, and if we survive, and are supported, we will pump back ten-fold into the Treasury to support the country."