7

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

A response document is linked to this report, dated 17 November 2023. Response attribution to this recommendation has not been verified. Read the response document.

Addressee Bodies
Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs
Timeline
Recommendation age 3.1 yrs
Report published 28 Jul 2023