Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
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Context
Food prices are rising, affecting household finances.
What recent assessment has the Department made of the impact of food price rises on household budgets? Food price inflation is at 4.4% in January and events in Ukraine have an effect on energy costs impacting further.
International commodity prices are heavily influenced by factors such as energy costs and exchange rates. Recent pressures have been sustained and we have seen food price inflation rise to 4.4% in January, up from 4.2% in December. Events in Ukraine and the effect of that on energy prices are likely to have further impacts.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Food banks are reporting increased usage due to rising costs, leading to higher levels of poverty.
The cost of living is increasing, with food prices rising by 3.9% year on year. Food banks in Jarrow and Gateshead East are as busy as ever, indicating a rise in poverty. Does the Minister agree that it's time for the Chancellor to commit to ending food poverty through measures outlined in the 'Right to Food' campaign?
The Government have put in place a number of measures to help households, particularly with the sharp increase in energy costs. We also have schemes such as the holiday activity programme and provided local authorities additional support for those struggling to afford food.
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Assessment & feedback
Measures to address food poverty via 'Right to Food' campaign not committed to explicitly
Working With Partners
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
Ukraine's conflict is impacting global food prices, especially for wheat.
With Ukraine's halted exports affecting grain supplies, what steps will the Secretary of State take to protect grain supplies in the UK? Also, how will he engage with retailers on cost-sharing and growing more domestic grain?
We have a dedicated group within DEFRA since January planning for potential impacts from Ukraine, and we are largely self-sufficient in wheat imports. We will look at the costs of inputs for livestock sectors.
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Assessment & feedback
Details on talks with retailers and cost-sharing not provided
Under Review
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
Fertiliser prices have risen significantly, impacting farmers' expenses and potentially food security.
With fertiliser prices spiking due to gas costs, what steps can the Government take to address this crisis and ensure food security is not undermined?
Fertiliser prices are dependent on gas costs; we have been working closely with a UK producer to maintain production, but a special group is being set up with industry to address long-term solutions relying less on gas prices.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific actions not provided beyond setting up a special group
Under Consideration
Response accuracy
Q5
Partial Answer
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Context
Households not on the gas grid face increased heating costs with no protection from energy caps.
Price rises are impacting household budgets, especially those off the gas grid. What actions is the Government taking to protect such constituents?
I have had conversations with BEIS about disruptions affecting household heating oil supplies; the Business Secretary's Department is working closely on these issues.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific actions not provided beyond noting ongoing work
Under Review
Response accuracy
Q6
Partial Answer
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Context
Russia's invasion of Ukraine threatens global food supplies, affecting grain production and prices.
How is the Department ensuring food security in the UK and stabilising food prices? What plans are there to assist developing countries meet their needs?
Tomorrow, I will attend a G7 session discussing issues impacting global commodity prices. We must impose sanctions despite potential market disruptions to address Russia's regime.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific domestic actions and international plans not detailed beyond attending a meeting
Under Consideration
Response accuracy