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Food policy council: new chair announced

FoodDame Suzi Leather has been appointed the Chair of the new Council of Food Policy Advisers.

The Council will 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.

Environment Secretary, Hilary Benn said:

“I’m delighted to be able to appoint Suzi Leather as the Chair of the Council of Food Policy Advisers.

“Suzi Leather has a long interest in food policy and brings with her a wealth of experience of leading high profile public bodies such as the Food Standards Agency and the School Food Trust.

“I am setting up the Council for two years, with a review after 18 months to see if a more permanent body is needed. I want it to focus on the practical policies needed to maintain UK and global food security and the long term sustainability of the food chain, following on from the recommendations on food made by the Prime Minister’s Strategy Unit Report.”

Accepting the appointment, Dame Suzi said:

“I am pleased to accept this role on the new Food Policy Council. Advising Government on the core task - making our food system fit for the planet and for our own health - is profoundly important." 

Members of the Council: selection process

Defra has also published the appointment process and selection criteria for members of the Council on our website today. Members will be selected on merit based on the criteria set out and the balance of expertise across the Council.

Hilary Benn added:

“We are looking for people who have a real interest in food and public policy, and who can offer knowledge, expertise or experience of farming and the food chain, the role of science, or of the impacts of food consumption and production on health, the environment or the economy.”

Further information

  • More information about Dame Suzi Leather and the Council of Food Policy Advisers is available in the news release
  • Details on the appointment and selection process for new members is available on the Defra website

Page published: 6 November 2008