HELSTON MP Andrew George is backing a bid to protect the traditional Cornish pasty from imitation.

Mr George has written to Food Minister Alun Michael urging him to support the Cornish Pasty Association's campaign to obtain official recognition for the county's staple dish.

The CPA wants the pasty to be granted PGI (Protected Geographical Indication) status, meaning that a pasty could only be described as "Cornish" if it had actually been produced in the county.

Manufacturers and retailers outside Cornwall have objected to the application, claiming their business interests will be damaged. They say the name "Cornish pasty" is generic and has been applied to various types of pasty made across the UK over the years.

But the CPA, which is due to put its case to Defra officials next month, will present research showing that 70 per cent of consumers believe there to be a difference between a Cornish pasty and other types of pasty.

Mr George said: "PGI status would bring many benefits for Cornwall, as it would mean a pasty could only be described as 'Cornish' if it had actually been produced in the Duchy. The measure would secure thousands of jobs in Cornwall and help improve farmers' incomes. A significant proportion of Cornwall's economy comes from its food heritage and the reputation that goes with it. The pasty industry is worth around £150 million a year and constitutes six per cent of the total Cornish food economy.

"This is not just about standing up for the humble pasty, but for the right to market Cornwall on our terms and to make sure that those who share the privilege of using the 'Cornish' name have a genuine right to do so."