Farmers worry that new minister is a 'semi-veggie'

Independent Online Edition (UK)

This is hilarious:

David Miliband, the new minister for the countryside, stands accused of turning up his Blairite nose at the roast beef of old England.

The incoming Secretary of State for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs sparked concern in farming circles yesterday, after his office refused to confirm or deny rumours that he doesn't touch red meat.

Since his new job will require much tub-thumping on behalf of the British meat industry, opponents of the red stuff scent a PR coup.

The Vegetarian Society tell me they're now launching an investigation, and reckon the bright young star of New Labour, above, to be a "semi-veggie".

"We've a contact with David who is going to let us know about his eating habits," said their spokesman yesterday.

"Our suspicion is that he does eat fish and poultry, and is, in fact, a meat reducer, as opposed to a proper veggie."

Miliband comes from a Jewish family, so may avoid pork for religious reasons. However, rural campaigners professed concern about his attitude towards other meat products.

"Take it as read: if this guy doesn't eat beef, we'll be very upset," said Robin Page, of the Countryside Restoration Trust.

Awwww. Poor baby.