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Saturday 16 June 2018

Brexit: and the risks for UK food

"I think food and drink prices will come down after Brexit," says Tim Martin of Wetherspoon's:
Wetherspoon's boss Tim Martin on food and drink prices - i newspaper

But others are not so sure:

The Green Alliance and the Food and Nature Task Force believes that if the Government is unable to reach a deal with the EU and unilaterally opens the UK to imports from other countries, not only will there be a glut of non-EU food imports, there could also be lower standards for food and agriculture, as well as increasing the UK's food footprint:
Brexit risk for UK food - Food Manufacture

This echos concerns from Neil Parish, chair of parliament's own Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee, which has just produced a report:

"A new funding model for agriculture is essential for the future prosperity of UK farming. As we leave the EU we must ensure that we maintain our standards, and that those importing into the UK meet our high standards of production.
The Government should commit to funding the future agricultural policy using ring-fenced funds, consider new support mechanisms such as tax breaks and capital grant support, ensure that trade agreements demand that imported products meet our standards, and avoid a regulatory race to the bottom.
Defra’s consultation is ambitious and we welcome much of its intent. There is a notable lack of detail in the Government’s paper, however, and we seek more clarity on funding, delivery, and timing. The Government risks not achieving its ambition and risks damaging the sector. The Government should respond to the farming sector’s concerns and provide clarity as soon as possible."

Committee calls for ring-fenced farming fund post-Brexit - News from Parliament - UK Parliament

This follows on from Defra's own report:
Futures Forum: Brexit: and "The future for food, farming and the environment" >>> DEFRA consultation ends 8th May

And other think tank reports on 'the future of food and farming':
Futures Forum: Brexit: and the future of food and farming: from the Initiative for Free Trade
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