Strictly Morris dancing challenge to MP Owen
Shropshire MP Owen Paterson has been challenged to try Morris dancing – after apparently suggesting that the English tradition is not worthy of European Union cash.
Mr Paterson, the Environment Secretary, has annoyed Morris dancers across the country by saying that he would apply a "Morris dancing filter" to ensure money was not spent on inappropriate schemes under the reformed Common Agricultural Policy.
Today Morris dancers from the county accused Mr Paterson of lacking understanding.
John Kirkpatrick, who founded The Shropshire Bedlams and Martha Rhoden's Tuppenny Dish groups in Bishop's Castle, said: "It's a stupid thing to say. Unfortunately Morris dancing is always high on the list for ridicule like this.
"I would like to see Mr Paterson have a go before making remarks like this."
Mr Kirkpatrick said Morris dancing was an important part of English heritage.
He said: "Morris dancing is something which is uniquely English and we should be proud of it rather than having derogatory remarks made about it. Different parts of the country have different ways of doing it. It's the local identity."
Mr Paterson's comments came at the Conservative Party conference in Manchester last month.
He said: "What I also want to put in place is what I call a Morris dancing filter.
"There have been mistakes in the past and I want to make absolutely sure they are good schemes that deliver good worthwhile projects that are good for the economy and good for the environment."
Mark Harris, a member of The Ironmen and Severn Gilders, based in Ironbridge, said Morris dancing was booming.
He said: "It's not just a lot of bearded old blokes dancing a bit. There are some great youth teams out there now who are showing how it can be done. Morris dancing was Britain's original street dance and there are lots of people making it relevant."
Mr Harris added: "People should find out what it's about before knocking it."
Mr Paterson would not be drawn on whether he would take up the challenge.
Commenting on the new CAP he said: "The Rural Development Programme has transformed the prospects of thousands of rural businesses, created jobs and boosted the rural economy.
"However, there have been times in the past where CAP funding has been spent on odd projects with no obvious economic benefits. That's why we're about to consult to ensure the programme delivers real results for the rural economy and the environment as well as value for taxpayers."
