News

The report by the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (EFRA) Committee calls on the Government to explore the options and affordability of extending the provision of free school meals and to break what it calls the ‘junk food cycle’ the UK suffers from.  

On current trends the treatment of Type 2 diabetes alone, by 2035, will cost the NHS more than it currently spends on treating all cancers. The report said food insecurity and its repercussions are likely to contribute to making 40% of the population obese by 2025. 

The report said the high and sustained rate of food inflation meant many households were having to take measures to save money like skipping meals. This could lead to physical and mental health consequences. The increase in food insecurity is partly because consumer price inflation has risen to its highest rates in over 40 years. 

Sir Robert Goodwill, chair of the EFRA Committee, said: “Food security matters to us all. It is vital to farmers; it is vital to other food producers. And of course, it is vital for every citizen up and down the land to have a square meal at a reasonable price. But surprisingly, the Government does not appear to be taking this very basic matter anywhere near seriously enough.  

“This report is calling, through its various recommendations, for much more attention to be paid to the guaranteed supply of good quality food - at prices which suit both producers and consumers. I know that is not an easy balance to strike. But that’s what Government is for. It must read the report carefully and act accordingly.”