Tourism minister John Penrose praised the EDP Bidwells Norfolk Food Festival as a 'top quality example' of the way businesses can come together to help promote their counties.
His comments came as hundreds of MPs, peers and parliament workers were won over by Norfolk's first-class food and drink offering during a special event at the House of Commons today.
Joining Mr Penrose at the Norfolk Food Festival Visits Parliament event in the Jubilee Room were dozens of the country's politicians, including communities and local government secretary Eric Pickles, and a host of Norfolk figures keen to show their support.
The gathering, organised by South West Norfolk MP Elizabeth Truss, saw 14 of the county's top food and drink producers offering samples of their wares from pork pies and bread to chocolate and whisky.
Tourism minister Mr Penrose said that, although money was tight for everyone, the build-up to – and legacy of – the Olympics offered a fantastic opportunity for all parts of the country to attract more visitors.
He said he wanted to see more businesses playing an active part in the promotion of their cities and counties.
He said: 'This is a top quality example of Norfolk doing its bit. It's brilliant.'
For more from the Norfolk Food Festival Visits Parliament event see tomorrow's EDP.
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