LOCAL farmers massed on the steps of St Helens Town Hall this week to protest against the French ban on British beef which is threatening their very livelihood.
The protest was organised by the St Helens Liberal Democrat party and Union Jacks and banners were proudly held aloft by farmers as they fought their cause.
They also advised St Helens shoppers to boycott French products and show their support for goods produced in this country.
Brian Spencer, the Liberal Democrat leader on St Helens Council, said: "This country needs nothing from France and we are calling on shoppers to boycott French goods in the supermarket."
Brian's party colleague, Councillor John Beirne added: "Our farmers need our support as they are losing their livelihoods." The party have now written to the Government's Minister for Agriculture, Nick Brown calling for "tough action and not empty threats."
Councillor Beirne added: "If every town in the country followed our lead, then the French would be the losers."
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