FARMERS have been told that Britain's strong pound is largely out of the Government's control.

Countryside Minister Elliot Morley told farmers at this year's Great Yorkshire Show that the economy's strength was due to "global" forces.

He said: "There is no doubt that the weak Euro, along with the fact that the pound is strong, is very detrimental to agriculture and other food businesses.

"But there is no magic button to press to weaken the pound. It is influenced by global issues.

"What is important is that it is absolutely vital for farmers to keep the option of joining the Euro open. If it is in the interests of Britain to join then we must consider that.

"What would be a disaster for farmers and businesses would be to decide that we definitely won't join the Euro."

But it goes against NFU President Ben Gill's statement, made at the show, that the strength of the pound was controlled by the signals put out by the Government.

He said: "The Government has got to stop hiding behind the claim that there is nothing we can do.

"These are market forces and they act in response to signals given out by the Government."

Mr Morley said his aim was to listen to farmers' views and concerns at the show.

He said: "People are always welcoming at this type of show.

"I know farmers have concerns about different issues, and this is an opportunity for them to raise them. That is one of the reasons why I am here.

"I've been here a few times now and it is a great show. There is always a very good cross-section of groups and I have always enjoyed my visits."

PICTURE: Pete Smith, of Helmsley, in the sheep-sheering semi-finals