Agriculture: UK Food Production

Answer: My Lords, I agree somewhat with the noble Lord’s original contention. It is, of course, the case that British self-sufficiency in food has increased very significantly over the past two or three decades. That is a reflection of the productive work of British farmers and their international competitiveness. We should take delight in the progress being made. Of course, the Government are very concerned to ensure that British farming is competitive and is supported in all possible ways so that it can play its part in international markets. The noble Lord will also appreciate that the strongest position for British agriculture is that it should be internationally competitive as, in so many areas, it is.

This is an answer to the Oral question asked on Thursday, 9 July 2009 by Lord Taylor of Holbeach (Conservative).

Question: My Lords, I declare an interest as a farmer and grower. Does the Minister agree that the days of assuming that there is plenty of food in the world for British consumers to access are over? What measures are the Government taking to give support and encouragement to British growers and farmers to increase production in this country?

Secondary information