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06/10/2008
New Council of Food Policy Advisors Announced
The establishment of a new team of advisers on food policy from 'the farm to the fork' has been announced today by Hilary Benn, Secretary of State for the Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs.
The Council of Food Policy Advisers will include expertise from every sector of our food system - from production to retail, and from regulation and distribution to consumption.
It will advise government on food affordability, security of supply and the environmental impact of food production, and contribute to the drawing up of a policy for food security and supply which is expected to be published later this year.
Speaking at a Chatham House event on global food security, Mr Benn said: "With rising prices and increasing demand across the globe, we can't take our food supply for granted. Our food supply needs to be reliable and resilient and able to withstand shocks and crises.
"Our food supplies must remain secure, and we must have a strong, thriving, environmentally sustainable farming industry in this country that continues to produce a significant proportion of our food."
He added: "The expert team will draw in expertise on every aspect of our food system, providing advice from the farm to the fork. It is time for a more strategic approach to food policy, and the Council will provide that strategic oversight and ensure our policies support a sustainable food system that provides safe, affordable and healthy food."
The Council of Food Policy Advisors will advise the Secretary of State as a member of the new National Economic Council.
It will cover food production, supplies, prices, distribution, consumption, and related aspects of food policy.
The Council will report to the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs but will also work closely with the Department of Health and the Food Standards Agency.
(JM)
The Council of Food Policy Advisers will include expertise from every sector of our food system - from production to retail, and from regulation and distribution to consumption.
It will advise government on food affordability, security of supply and the environmental impact of food production, and contribute to the drawing up of a policy for food security and supply which is expected to be published later this year.
Speaking at a Chatham House event on global food security, Mr Benn said: "With rising prices and increasing demand across the globe, we can't take our food supply for granted. Our food supply needs to be reliable and resilient and able to withstand shocks and crises.
"Our food supplies must remain secure, and we must have a strong, thriving, environmentally sustainable farming industry in this country that continues to produce a significant proportion of our food."
He added: "The expert team will draw in expertise on every aspect of our food system, providing advice from the farm to the fork. It is time for a more strategic approach to food policy, and the Council will provide that strategic oversight and ensure our policies support a sustainable food system that provides safe, affordable and healthy food."
The Council of Food Policy Advisors will advise the Secretary of State as a member of the new National Economic Council.
It will cover food production, supplies, prices, distribution, consumption, and related aspects of food policy.
The Council will report to the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs but will also work closely with the Department of Health and the Food Standards Agency.
(JM)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
