Supermarket Supply Chains 2020-05-19
2020-05-19
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Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
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Context
The MP is concerned about the maintenance of supermarket supply chains amid the pandemic.
What steps are being taken to ensure the maintenance of supermarket supply chains during the covid-19 outbreak?
We have worked closely with retailers and suppliers to ensure the security of supply chains, introduced temporary measures such as relaxations in competition law, extended delivery hour regulations, and published guidance for workplace safety. Staff are working around the clock to ensure food availability.
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Q2
Direct Answer
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The MP is concerned about access to priority testing for staff working in the food supply and retail.
To support the resilience of supermarkets and food shops, what steps are being taken to ensure that people who work in food supply and food retail can access priority testing for covid-19?
All essential workers, including those in the food supply chain, are eligible for testing. Employees who are self-isolating can apply for a test online or through their employer referral.
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Q3
Direct Answer
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The MP is concerned about the shortfall of experienced pickers for UK crops due to the dismantling of the seasonal agricultural workers scheme and the current pandemic.
With an alarming shortfall of 70,000 experienced people needed to pick our crops, can the Secretary of State tell us what those figures are today and what is his plan B?
We estimate that only about a third of the usual east European workforce is present, so we need a British workforce to step up. Employers are recruiting more British workers with G's salads currently having over 400 British people working on its farms.
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