Baroness Miller of Chilthorne Domer inspired by visit to Laverstoke Park near Overton (North West Hampshire Liberal Democrats)

North West Hampshire Liberal Democrats <info@nwhantslibdems.org.uk>

Baroness Miller of Chilthorne Domer inspired by visit to Laverstoke Park near Overton

May 9, 2005 11:35 AM

Baroness Miller with Martin Tod and Jody Schekter

Baroness Miller of Chilthorne Domer, Liberal Democrat House of Lords Spokesperson on Agriculture and Rural Affairs visited Laverstoke Park near Overton (http://www.laverstokepark.co.uk/). The Park is owned by the former World Formula One Racing Driver Jody Scheckter and described as "the biggest smallholding in the world".

Mr Scheckter briefed Baroness Miller on the rationale of biodynamic farming and his goal of producing the 'best tasting, healthiest food'. A tour followed that included the Farm Shop, as well as seeing how animals are reared and how the soil is prepared for crops.

Baroness Miller said "Laverstoke Park is inspirational and sets an example how we can farm to produce good healthy food whilst encouraging wildlife. Pesticide free farming is even more important in this part of Hampshire where chalk rivers and aquifers provide the drinking water."

500 acres of Mr Scheckter's farm are certified organic. He said "our biodynamic approach to farming is a more holistic way of farming and exceeds organic standards."

Baroness Miller, in a paper published in 2004 said "spectacular results have been achieved by some local authorities and schools by reverting to freshly cooking meals on site using locally sourced produce. We must also persuade some hospitals to do likewise and improve patient nutrition."

Baroness Miller was accompanied by Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Candidate Martin Tod, Liberal Democrat Councillor Paula Baker (Basingstoke and Deane), and Liberal Democrat County Council Candidate for the Candovers, John Burbidge-King.