Food Security

The debate on food security was introduced by Sir John Hayes, the Member of Parliament for South Holland and The Deepings. He highlighted the importance of food security, particularly for his rural constituency which is a major agricultural hub, producing a significant portion of the UK's vegetables, poultry, and sugar beets. Sir John emphasized the high-quality, alluvial farmland in Lincolnshire, which is under threat from large-scale solar and infrastructure developments. He expressed concern about the loss of the best and most versatile farmland in the region, arguing that food security is a matter of national importance that should be prioritized. In response, the Minister of State for the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, Daniel Zeichner, acknowledged the importance of food security and the government's commitment to supporting British farmers and a resilient food system. He recognized the threat of climate change to food production and emphasized the need to balance food security, environmental protection, and the transition to clean energy. The Minister assured the House that the government would work closely with stakeholders, including farmers, to ensure that the transition to net zero does not come at the expense of food production or farm profitability. During the debate, several other Members of Parliament intervened to share their perspectives. Aphra Brandreth, the Member for Chester South and Eddisbury, called for legally binding food security targets, while Jim Shannon, the Member for Strangford, emphasized the need for a UK-wide food strategy that encompasses all regions of the United Kingdom. Gareth Davies, the Member for Grantham and Bourne, expressed disappointment that the new government had not yet committed to the previous government's provisions on protecting agricultural land. John Glen, the Member for Salisbury, stressed the need for clarity from the government on how it will prioritize the competing demands on high-quality land. Finally, Martin Vickers, the Member for Brigg and Immingham, expressed hope that the new government would review the proposed National Grid pylons in Lincolnshire.