I READ with concern about the number of planning applications being submitted for the establishment of solar ‘parks’ on what appears to be good farming land (CP online, 10-08-22).

Britain imports approximately 50 per cent of its foodstuffs — politicians and most of the general population seem to think this can go on indefinitely.

Even before the invasion of Ukraine the grain harvest was much reduced in Russia and North America as a result of climate change. 

Last year (I believe) the rice harvest failed in Bangladesh (the third largest rice producer in the world). 

As sea levels rise the very productive coastal strip of many countries will diminish, further reducing the amount of arable land.

All this is set against an increasing world population. 

In the decades to come any country that cannot feed itself will be in considerable trouble.

I am an enthusiast for solar energy, but the panels should be on domestic and industrial roofs, not on good farmland. 

I believe we need to support our farmers for in the decades to come we are going to need every acre of farmland we can lay our hands on.

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