Prime Minister Boris Johnson tried out a bit of Cornish when he met with the county’s six MPs by video call today.
Starting off the meeting with a hearty "Kernow bys Vyken", the prime minister pledged his support for Cornwall, said MP for St Austell Steve Double.
’We discussed the Government’s support for Cornwall, particularly the tourism sector, as we continue to come out of lockdown measures, and the positive welcome message that we must join together in giving,’ said Mr Double.
’We were also keen to press on him the need for support for Cornwall after the COVID-19 crisis, with continued investment in new infrastructure and skilled jobs, as well as our farmers and fishermen as we leave the EU.’
’It was a very positive meeting and I am delighted the Prime Minister has listened to our concerns. We will continue to do all we can to ensure the voice of Cornwall is heard loud and clear at the top of Government.’
Mr Double said that the Prime Minister had greeted the MPs in Cornish as it is currently Speak Cornish Week.
’Kernow bys Vyken’ is a phrase that has become widely known and used and has its roots in the revival of Cornish culture and identity.
Mr Double was one of three MPs in the county who had called for a Cornish tick box as the order for the 2021 census was being discussed: this option was dismissed by the government in May.