The recent warning from Save British Farming (SBF) about the UK's food supply disruption is a frightening reminder of the fragility of our food system. During their recent event at Westminster, farmers and industry experts highlighted the urgent need for government action to prevent severe disruptions to food supplies.
Key Concerns Raised
Government Inaction: Former Foreign Secretary James Cleverly noted that the government is underestimating the potential impact of food supply disruptions and seemingly not taking into consideration the severity of the current and future risks.
Food Security as National Security: SBF founder Liz Webster poignantly stated, "An army marches on its stomach, and those who feed the army – farmers, food workers, manufacturers – must be protected too."
As someone who is passionate about the UK’s agricultural sector and recruiting within it, I resonate with the concerns raised personally. The challenges faced by farmers are not just about crops and livestock; they're about the togetherness of our society and economy. The Government's acknowledgement that "food security is national security" in its 2024 general election manifesto is a step in the right direction, but actions must follow words, and I feel they have taken many steps backwards from that statement and are going against this! We may not be feeling the issue just yet, however it won't be long. Actions need to be taken now.
In my conversations with clients and candidates, the recurring theme is the struggle to adapt to forever-changing policies and economic pressures. The resilience of our farmers is incredible, but they cannot do it alone. It's important for stakeholders at all levels to collaborate and support the backbone of our food system. Every aspect of the food supply chain is affected by this, therefore, strength is in numbers, and those in the industry must work together, not against each other.
If you're facing challenges in the agricultural sector or wish to discuss these issues further, please don't hesitate to reach out. Let's work together to ensure a stable and secure food future for the UK.
