Oxfordshire councillor calls for meat to be put back on menu

In March, Oxfordshire County Council’s cabinet voted to serve entirely plant-based meals at full council meetings and all civic events.

Currently, there are seven meetings of full council each year – meetings for all 63 county councillors.

READ MORE: County council will now serve vegan food at meetings and school lunches

The divisive call was made despite the presence of Jeremy Clarkson and other local farmers protesting outside the county hall.

A proposal has now been submitted to put meat back on the menu.

Tory councillor Yvonne Constance’s motion reads: “This council notes that the leader has acknowledged the challenging market conditions faced by Oxfordshire’s excellent meat and dairy farmers.

“This council further notes that local authorities have an important duty to engage positively and proportionately in public discourse.

Oxfordshire county councillor Yvonne Constance. Picture: Ed Nix

“Given the privileged position in which this council finds itself and the potentially damaging effects of its motion dated December 14, this council resolves to offer locally produced menus at council-catered events, including meat, dairy and vegan options, or to make alternative provisions for members, staff and attendees to facilitate personal choice.”

A Countryside Alliance spokesperson added: “Councillors will have the opportunity to back local farmers by supporting Yvonne Constance’s motion.

“We hope that, irrespective of political allegiances, every councillor supports this incredibly sensible alternative and that we can, all together, move forward for the countryside and our environment.”

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This story was written by Liam Rice, he joined the team in 2019 as a multimedia reporter.

Liam covers politics, travel and transport. He occasionally covers Oxford United.

Get in touch with him by emailing: Liam.rice@newsquest.co.uk

Follow him on Twitter @OxMailLiamRice