In principle, I support the motion because if you have lost the confidence of the farmers whose produce you are trying to promote, then the writing is on the wall. Mr. Murrin will, I understand, be making a presentation to a committee tomorrow. We have to listen to what he has to say. I am conscious that the vote on the motion will not be taken tonight in any event. I am reserving judgment on this matter, particularly as we are not talking about Peter Mandelson giving away state secrets or a child molester like Jeffrey Epstein. We are talking about someone whose company is importing Brazilian beef. Obviously, there are questions, as others have said, about Brazilian beef, including in the context of banned hormones, traceability and the environmental impact, which is why, on balance, I support the calls, on the basis of environmental grounds in particular, not to implement the Mercosur deal. There is a certain amount of hypocrisy and grandstanding involved here. Let the man speak tomorrow and see what he has to say. The pressure might take a toll, but we have to put it into context. Ultimately, if you do not have people's confidence, then the writing is on the wall. He may have to make the decision in that regard himself. Let us give him a week or so and see what happens.

Sentiment score: 0.04