THE Conservatives' rural affairs spokesman has spent time in the Dales learning more about the issues that really matter to people in the rural communities.

David Lidington, the Shadow Secretary for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, spent yesterday morning with senior members of North Yorkshire County Council, as well as local farmers, at Leeming.

Executive member Coun Carl Les said the visit had been organised for the MP to talk to farming communities in North Yorkshire, post foot-and-mouth, and tackle questions of agricultural reform.

In a very relaxed atmosphere, Mr Lidington answered questions from the floor about a wide range of issues, from European Union policies and regulations to the rural economy, waste management and local services.

"I'm here today to both explain the position of the Conservative party on agriculture and environmental policy and to listen to people's issues or concerns," said Mr Lidington.

"As chief opposition I can't change policies, but I can try to understand what the local people want and bring these up in parliament."

He spent two days in a farm-run bed and breakfast in the Yorkshire Dales with his family.