Written question asked by Baroness Miller of Chilthorne Domer (Liberal Democrat), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord Henley (Conservative) on Thursday, 14 July 2011.

Food: Local Food Partnerships

Question: To ask Her Majesty’s Government which department is responsible for supporting the creation of local food partnerships linking local government, health authorities and community groups with food producers in their locality.

Answer: Defra has responsibility for policy on local food. We recognise the benefits that the marketing of regional and local food can bring to both producers and consumers alike. Shoppers increasingly want to know how the food they buy has been produced and its origin. Across the country there are a range of local food groups of different sizes and membership. Food hubs of this nature support local growth and it is for local communities and local economic partnerships to decide where and how they develop. We welcome the development of these groups and the many benefits they can bring to producers and the local community.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 10860; 729 c203WA
Session: 2010-12
Subjects: Departmental responsibilities Food Public sector Procurement Civil society
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk