The Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (EFRA) Committee has launched an inquiry into fairness the UK food supply chain, covering the chain from ‘farm to fork’.
The cross-party committee of MPs will investigate how profitability and risks are shared through the food supply chain and the existing government system of monitoring and regulation of these. The impact of external factors on the supply chain, such as imported food and global commodity prices, will also be examined.
It will take evidence from, among others, 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 change where appropriate.
EFRA chair Sir Robert Goodwill MP, said: “During these times of high food price inflation, when many people are struggling to give their families good food at a reasonable price, it’s our job as a committee to get to the bottom of what’s going on.
“We know that consumers are paying higher prices, but the question is – are the other parts of the supply chain unduly benefitting from that, or are some of them also feeling the squeeze?
“We need to strike the right balance to ensure healthy, affordable – and preferably British-produced – food is available to all of us.”
NPA chief executive Lizzie Wilson said: “The NPA will be responding in full on behalf of members but we would also encourage any individuals who want to take part to do so.”
The deadline to respond is July 26. You can read more, including how to respond to the call for evidence HERE.