British public believe food imports should match UK standards, says survey
A survey has suggested that 77% of British people believe imported food should meet the same environmental and animal welfare standards as that produced in the UK.
The poll was carried out by ComRes on behalf of the British Guild of Agricultural Journalists (BGAJ), as the UK government’s Free Trade Agreement negotiations with Australia reach an advanced stage.
BGAJ president, Baroness Rosie Boycott, said the public’s attitudes towards food and farming “remains clear” and that safeguarding UK agriculture’s standards should be a priority for ministers.
“The public’s head hasn’t been turned by any alternatives in the slightest, despite the UK exiting the European Union,” she said. “
“It also indicates that the public would not support any free trade deal allowing Australia tariff-free imports on beef, lamb and sugar – an arrangement that would undercut UK farmers and set a dangerous precedent.”
Almost half of respondents said they believed a climate change levy should be charged on food with a higher carbon footprint, with the proceeds spent on encouraging carbon-friendly farming methods.
Baroness Boycott continued: “The public appreciates the multifaceted work our farmers do on a daily basis and believes our industry still has a pivotal role to play in providing food for the country while safeguarding the environment. We can only hope the government feels the same way.”
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