7
Deferred
Undertake a comprehensive Cabinet Office review of departmental food policy responsibilities and structures.
Recommendation
There is an incoherent approach to food policy across Government. Defra is designated as the Government department responsible for food policy, but 15 other departments and agencies are involved in different elements of development and delivery. The successes of food policy coordination across Whitehall forged during the covid-19 pandemic have not been maintained, and we have concerns that a siloed approach to food policy could hinder the successful implementation of the Government Food Strategy. Given the importance of food security, and the need for policy coherence and for strong leadership on this issue, we recommend that the Cabinet Office should undertake a comprehensive review of departmental responsibilities and structures regarding food policy and its various facets, and to publish its findings within 12 months of the date of publication of this Report. (Paragraph 23) UK food supply
Government Response Summary
The government's response completely avoids the recommendation for a Cabinet Office review of departmental responsibilities for food policy, instead discussing the UK's reliance on imported nitrogen fertiliser and the resilience of chemical supply chains.
Government Response
Deferred
Government Response
Deferred
HM Government
Deferred
With one brief exception in the 1970s, the UK has been a net importer of nitrogen fertiliser for around half a century. Imports have increased steadily since 1980. Typically, 70% of all imported fertiliser goods are from the EU. While CF Fertilisers’ decision to permanently close the ammonia plant at its Billingham complex is disappointing, we are confident that the UK’s supply of critical chemicals remains resilient. The company intends to continue its fertiliser production using imported ammonia. We are continuing to monitor the security and stability of fertiliser and other supply chains and are working closely with colleagues across government and the devolved administrations, as well as industry figures, to do so. We continue to encourage industry to prioritise diversification and resilience, while we work cross-government to utilise recent and upcoming trade agreements to build further resilience into supply chains.
Timeline
Recommendation age
2.8 yrs
Report published
28 Jul 2023