The first part of the National Food Strategy, led by Henry Dimbleby, has been published containing ‘urgent recommendations’ to support the country through the COVID-19 pandemic and to ‘prepare for the end of the EU exit transition period on 31 December 2020.’
Dimbleby’s recommendations cover two main themes: making sure a generation of the most disadvantaged children are not left behind; and grasping ‘the once-in-a-lifetime’ opportunity to decide on the shape of the UK’s future trading relationships and food production.
Henry Dimbleby said that, “We should use that freedom to decide that we want to uphold standards. And the government should be confident of scrutiny on the trade deals that it is doing.” He warned that trade deals should not only increase wealth but restore the environment and protect animal welfare.
The report also recommends that the Free School Meal scheme is extended to every child up to the age of 16 from a household where the parent or guardian is in receipt of Universal Credit. It also called for an extension of the Holiday Activity and Food Programme to all areas of England.
Tim Lang, Professor of food policy at London’s City University, commented, “It’s a thoughtful report which recognises that consumers with unequal information cannot deal with the power of the industry. It’s the beginning of good.”
NFU President Minette Batters said the report showed the UK must ensure “our environmental, animal welfare and safety standards are not undermined so that our farmers can continue producing high quality, sustainable food.”
The second part of the strategy, which will look at issues such as climate change, biodiversity and pollution, will be published next year.
Photo source: National Food Strategy