DEPARTMENT FOR
ENVIRONMENT, FOOD AND RURAL AFFAIRS News Release (110/09) issued by
COI News Distribution Service on 11 May 2009
Global challenges
such as population growth towards nine billion in 2050 and climate
change highlight the need to develop sustainable food policies fit
for the longer term.
The Ministers with responsibility for food sustainability from
the UK Government, Scottish Government, Welsh Assembly Government
and Northern Ireland Executive met in Edinburgh today to consider
these challenges and opportunities for working together to address
emerging issues.
Speaking in Edinburgh, Farming Minister Jane Kennedy said:
"Until recently, we have not had to worry about our food
security in the UK. We've taken agricultural production for
granted and the proportion of our income spent on food has
plummeted. However the potential impact of climate change on the
way we will need to live and work in the future has pushed food
security up the agenda at an increasing rate and highlighted the
need to identify sustainable ways to produce, distribute and enjoy
what we eat.
"We need to acknowledge the challenges faced by us all, but
also celebrate the successes of the UK's food producers and
supply chain. UK farmers produce some of the best food in the
world and are becoming increasingly aware of their impact on the environment."
The meeting, hosted by the Scottish Government, reflected the
importance of food and drink, not just in economic terms but also
through their contribution to healthy individuals and communities.
The meeting discussed sharing best practice from current and
developing initiatives. In particular, the meeting identified
opportunities for co-operative working in assessing food security
issues and considering opportunities for collaborative research.
Ministers agreed that given the usefulness of this meeting,
dialogue should be maintained and a similar event at ministerial
level will be held later in the year.
NOTES TO EDITORS
For more information on Defra food policy visit: http://www.defra.gov.uk/foodrin/policy/index.htm
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