BURNHAM-ON-SEA MP James Heappey has welcomed the news that China will allow British beef imports for the first time in more than two decades – something he believes will help Somerset’s farmers continue to prosper.

On a recent trip to China, Prime Minister Theresa May struck a deal with the Chinese Prime Minister Li Keqiang which means the trade barriers currently in place between the two countries will be removed.

Trading will be given the green light, for the first time since the BSE crisis back in 1996, within the next six months.

Mr Heappey said this will benefit many farmers in his constituency, as well as the local and national economy.

“This is fantastic news for farmers in Somerset,” Mr Heappey said.

“I am really pleased to see this agreement and I have no doubt this is a fantastic opportunity for Somerset’s beef farmers to sell their product in the biggest market on Earth.”