To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they will consider introducing policies for import substitution on food products, particularly dairy and horticulture, once the UK has left the EU.
Answered on
19 September 2017
The UK sources food from a diverse range of countries, in addition to a strong domestic production base. This will not change after leaving the EU. We want to grow more, sell more and export more British food, supported by the Industrial Strategy. This will allow the food and drink sector to become even more resilient, competitive and profitable. It is our priority to enable an innovative, productive and competitive food supply chain from farm and sea to fork, which invests in people and skills.
We are prioritising securing the freest trade possible with the EU, including an ambitious and comprehensive trade agreement and a new customs agreement. We work to promote transparency and open global markets internationally, as well as a competitive domestic market to help producers and retailers offer the best prices, quality and choice to consumers.