You are here:

New council of food policy advisers

FoodA new team of advisers on food policy from the farm to the fork has been announced today to advise government on food affordability, security of supply and the environmental impact of food production. It will also contribute to the policy for food security and supply which is expected to be published later this year.

The Council of Food Policy Advisers will include expertise from every sector of our food system – from production to retail, and from regulation and distribution to consumption.

Environment Secretary, Hilary Benn said:

“With rising prices and increasing demand across the globe, we can’t take our food supply for granted. Our food supply needs to be reliable and resilient and able to withstand shocks and crises.

“Our food supplies must remain secure, and we must have a strong, thriving, environmentally sustainable farming industry in this country that continues to produce a significant proportion of our food.

“The expert team will draw in expertise on every aspect of our food system, providing advice from the farm to the fork. It is time for a more strategic approach to food policy, and the Council will provide that strategic oversight and ensure our policies support a sustainable food system that provides safe, affordable and healthy food.”

The Council of Food Policy Advisors will advise the Secretary of State as a member of the new National Economic Council. It will cover food production, supplies, prices, distribution, consumption, and related aspects of food policy.

Further information

Page published: 6 October 2008