A VALE MEP has expressed her disappointment over the non-appearance of a Government Minister during a radio debate on farming, which was recorded at Pershore College.

Countryside Minister Alun Michael pulled out of the event, staged by BBC Hereford & Worcester last Friday at the last minute, claiming a clash of diary engagements.

That prompted West Midlands Liberal Democrat MEP, Liz Lynne, to say: "Farmers in Worcestershire and Herefordshire are coping with the worst crisis in agriculture since the war.

"They are, understandably, very anxious to hear the Minister answer their questions and debate the future of farming in this area, especially after the foot and mouth epidemic."

She added: "It is outrageous that the Government of the day cannot put up a spokesman to debate their policies on the BBC, especially as this show has been planned for weeks."

The panel for the Any Questions-style debate - to be broadcast on Saturday - included college principal, Dr David Hall.