To ask His Majesty's Government what plans they have to introduce a strategy for (1) the edible, and (2) the environmental, horticultural sectors in England.
Answered on
6 August 2024
Farming and food production are at the heart of the Government’s agenda and an important part of our mission-driven government approach.
In partnership with the sector, we are considering a number of ways to achieve our ambitious, measurable and long-term goals for the sector. This includes building on our long-standing R&D investment in crop breeding. In July 2024, Defra awarded a further £15 million over the next five years to fund five crop Genetic Improvement Networks. This includes £9 million for horticulture (soft fruit; vegetables; and pulse crops).