Brexit threat to food bills and supplies

Brexit poses “real risks” to the cost, availability and quality of the UK’S food supplies, which the government has shown little sign of addressing, researchers claim.

An 86-page review by food policy specialists at three UK universities has warned the forthcoming break from Europe will lead to “chaos” unless ministers establish a clear plan on how a new food system will operate.

Currently, the EU props up a huge chunk of Britain’s food supply – providing 31 per cent of its food – which the authors suggest cannot be walked away from without provisions in place. 0 Tim Lang: ‘Policy failing on unprecedented scale’

They cite recent research by the British Retail Consortium that the absence of a trade deal could push the price of imported food up by 22 per cent.

Even a “soft” departure from Europe, in which the UK will remain in the single market or customs union, could badly affect the food and farming industries, they add.

Professor Tim Lang of City University in London, accused ministers of a “serious policy failing on an unprecedented scale” for their handling of Brexit.

Mr Lang said: “The Government has provided next to no details on agriculture and fisheries, and there has been total silence on the rest of the food chain where most employment, value adding and consumer choice are made.

“Unless things change rapidly, and in line with our recommendations, the UK will not only have policy chaos, the food system itself will become increasingly chaotic.”