Written question asked by Lord Dykes (Liberal Democrat), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord Hunt of Kings Heath (Labour) on Tuesday, 17 March 2009.

Agriculture: Cattle

Question: To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they intend to develop plans to reduce nitrous oxide excretions from cattle by promoting alternative non-meat diets amongst the general public.

Answer: The Government recognise that climate change is one of the most serious challenges facing the world today, and helping all sectors of the economy address this challenge is a key priority. The livestock sector makes a significant contribution to UK eating habits as part of a healthy balanced diet, and also sustains traditional landscapes and habitats. The meat and livestock industry recognises that it needs to reduce its environmental impact and is developing a road map to achieve this, which is to be welcomed. Consumers also have a role to play and want to be able to make informed choices about what they eat. They are less receptive to being told by others what they should eat. Our approach is to support industry efforts to maximise the benefits it delivers and minimise the negative impacts, and to ensure consumers have access to information that they can rely on to make informed choices about their diet and lifestyle.

Secondary information