What is the aim of the investigation?
EFRA aim to gather feedback on issues throughout the food supply chain from ‘farm to fork’. They are calling for evidence from all stakeholders, including farmers, manufacturers, retailers, consumers and the government. After taking oral evidence in parliamentary evidence sessions, as well as written evidence, the committee will issue a report with its recommendations for changes where appropriate.
This inquiry follows record levels of inflation and the EFRA committee’s ongoing food security inquiry. Issues around access to healthy and affordable food, especially for low-income households, are of continuing importance for the Committee.
NFU concerns
The NFU has long lobbied for fairness and transparency across the agri-food supply chain.
The accumulation of recent unprecedented events including the Covid-19 pandemic, the war in Ukraine and extreme weather events have all highlighted the vulnerability of our UK supply chains along with the lack of transparency and fairness.
As UK farmers and growers have been left facing unsustainable pressures on their businesses we have seen overall contraction in the market which could have long-term implications on our domestic food production capacity and food security.
This inquiry is a valuable opportunity for members to shape our policy work and evidence the need for the Government to act now before we risk deepening the crisis further.
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