Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Food Supply

Tuesday 19 May 2020 · 3 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 2 Partly answered 1 Not answered 0

Key points

  • The food industry has responded quickly to changes in demand during the covid-19 outbreak.
  • US-style poultry farming practices are not lawful in the UK, as certain approaches are prohibited.
  • The Government have committed to protecting UK food standards in all trade negotiations.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Peter Bone Con
Benefits & Welfare Agriculture & Rural Affairs
Context

The MP is concerned about the food supply adequacy amidst the significant changes due to the pandemic, highlighting the rapid response needed from the industry.

Question

What assessment has been made of the adequacy of the food supply during the covid-19 outbreak?

Answer from George Eustice

The food industry has responded quickly and impressively to significant changes in demand, ensuring supply into stores and homes across the country. The Government have supported the industry with temporary relaxations of competition law, drivers' hours, and extended delivery hours.

Answered
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Q2 Peter Bone Con
Agriculture & Rural Affairs
Context

The MP is concerned about a proposed poultry factory farming project in his constituency, citing environmental issues and calling for an assessment.

Question

Does he agree that there is no need for US-style industrial factory farming of poultry in this country? Will he look into the proposal from my constituency?

Answer from George Eustice

Aware of the letter regarding the concern, will respond. US-style poultry farming practices not lawful in the UK, as certain approaches are prohibited; environment agencies conduct necessary assessments.

Partly answered

Not addressed: specific review request

How: Will Respond, Environment Agencies

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Q3 Deidre Brock SNP
Business & Trade Agriculture & Rural Affairs
Context

The MP is concerned about maintaining food production standards amidst Government's stance on the Agriculture Bill and US trade deal negotiations.

Question

How can the public ensure that food quality remains high with potential changes in import regulations due to trade deals?

Answer from George Eustice

The Government have committed to protecting UK food standards in all trade negotiations. Practices like chlorine washes on chicken and hormones in beef are prohibited in the UK; animal welfare is a priority in third country trade agreements.

Answered
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