A WEAVER Vale MP insists food poverty is an ‘increasingly important’ issue despite not attending a parliamentary debate on measures to reduce dependency on food banks.

MP Graham Evans was among 294 MPs who did not vote in favour of Labour’s motion, which called on the government to investigate the use of food banks in the UK.

The motion was defeated, however Mr Evans reiterated his support for food banks after attending the Mid Cheshire launch last year.

“I am very supportive of food banks and the work they do,” he said. “Food poverty is an issue which has become increasingly important since the first food bank was set up in 2001.

“I attended the launch of the Mid Cheshire Food Bank and I regularly meet with them. I also volunteer with the Salvation Army who have a longstanding tradition of helping the most needy in our communities.

“While I was unable to attend the debate because my other longstanding parliamentary commitments, I am always very happy to discuss these issues with constituents who want to contact me.”

Mr Evans pointed to other government initiatives such as 5 A Day, Love Food Hate Waste and the Eatwell Plate.

“Taking pressure off the lowest earners is an important way to help improve living standards,” he explained.

“I am proud that by the end of this Parliament 32,979 people in Weaver Vale will benefit from tax cuts to raise their living standards.

“Additionally, the government is working to provide the tools and information to enable people to make cost-effective, nutritional choices when buying food.”

Mr Evans encouraged constituents wishing to raise an issue with him to email help@grahamevansmp.com or call 01606 350323.

Labour parliamentary candidate for Weaver Vale, and Rudheath and Witton councillor, Julia Tickridge last week showed her support for Trussell Trust food banks by presenting them with £500 on behalf of the mid Cheshire branch of United the Union.