The process has kick started with a call for evidence to hear from anyone who has a view on food and an interest in what we eat and how it reaches our plates.
NFU chief food chain adviser Ruth Edge explains: "It is vital that farmers take part in this call for evidence and make sure their views are captured to form part of the future of the UK’s Food Policy."
The policy covers a large range of issues and anything which affects the food chain (and farmers) can be included within this call for evidence. This is an opportunity for members to share their views on a range of issues including:
- What does and doesn’t work within the food supply chain?
- What should government priorities for food be?
- What can farming deliver for the public and where is further clarity and support needed?
- What are the barriers to accessing technology?
- Have you seen or heard about initiatives which work well in other countries and the UK could learn from?
- How should government protect UK standards of production?
- How important is your farming business to the rural economy?
- How many business incomes does your business support?
The announcement was largely welcomed by key industry representatives, with NFU President Minette Batters describing the initiative as “long overdue”.
“It is crucial this strategy delivers for everyone – from food producers to families across the country, regardless of their income,” she added. “Safe, traceable, affordable food that is produced to high standards of animal welfare and environmental protection is a right for all and British farmers should be the number one supplier of this.”
The NFU will be collating the view of members over the coming weeks.
You can submit your comments to Zm9vZGNoYWluZm9jdXNAbmZ1Lm9yZy51aw== or through your regional board structure.
Comments should be with the NFU submitted prior to the 21 October.
This call for evidence is open until the 25 October. You can submit your comments directly to Defra here.
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