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Written question asked by Helen Morgan (Liberal Democrat) on Monday, 2 February 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 5 February 2026 (named day). It was answered by Angela Eagle (Labour) on Monday, 9 February 2026 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Agriculture: Imports

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of changing US to UK import levels of (a) wheat, (b) maize and (c) ethanol on (i) food security and (b) agricultural businesses.

Answer

We have always been clear that this Government will protect British farmers, our food security and uphold our high food, animal welfare and environmental standards in trade deals. That is exactly what we have done and will continue to do.

For the first time ever, the UK-US Economic Prosperity Deal has opened up exclusive access for UK beef farmers to the US market.

The Government has been engaging closely with the bioethanol industry, and the Department of Business and Trade continue to work with the affected companies and wider industry.

The UK has a highly resilient food supply chain, including around 80% self-sufficiency for cereal crops. Strong domestic production supports food security alongside supply from diverse sources and imports through stable trade routes. As internationally traded commodities, cereal supply chains are dynamic and responsive to global market developments in price and availability.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
110115
Session
2024-26
Subjects
Agriculture Imports Food supply USA Wheat Maize Ethanol
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk