Inquiry into energy impact on food supply
The All-Party Parliamentary Group covering the UK food and drink supply chain (APPG) has announced it will be “examining” the impact of the energy crisis on food and drink supply with a “special” inquiry session on 19th October.
APPG said that “thousands” of food and drink businesses “may have been saved” from closure this winter by the energy bills relief scheme (EBRS), but “significant questions remain over the details, feasibility and sustainability of government policy.”
Following this, the inquiry session is set to “explore the impact the current energy crisis is having on the food and drink supply chain, how this could potentially impact consumers and businesses across the UK and what steps need to be taken in the Chancellor’s next fiscal event, and after the government’s six-month support package expires.”
The body has announced 11 “call for evidence” questions for the inquiry session, with two questions asking, “How are rising costs impacting your business or your sector?” and “What will happen to your sector if you are not supported with energy bills after the initial six months cap?”
It added: “With the cost-of-living spiralling and the economic situation deteriorating, it is vital that food and drink remains affordable for families across the country. Tackling the short- and medium-term energy crisis is of the utmost importance in addressing that.”
First British lamb exports to US commence after two decades
GB deadweight cattle prices at “historical high” through September
