Britain’s Food and Drink Federation has sent a stark message to new Prime Minister Boris Johnson, stating that a no-deal Brexit would be disastrous for the UK food and drink sector.
“It will inflict serious and - in some cases mortal - damage on UK food and drink,” said the Food and Drink Federation’s chief executive Ian Wright.
“Prices will rise, there will be significant shortages of some products, and disruption for shoppers and consumers will be far reaching. We urge the new Prime Minister and Government to work with us to deliver a withdrawal agreement that guarantees the closest possible trade and regulatory relationship with our nearest neighbours so UK food and drink can flourish.”
He said that food and drink is the UK’s largest manufacturing sector, is critical to the national infrastructure and employs more than 450,00 people.
"The industry's recently published Plan for Success demonstrates how we can make the UK's £4 billion food chain the most dynamic, sustainable and competitive in the world. It shows how - working in partnership with Government - we can boost exports, develop talent and encourage innovation. A no-deal Brexit would destroy that opportunity and much more,” he said.
Responding to the appointment of Theresa Villiers MP as the new Defra Secretary, Ian Wright commented that the Food and Drink Federation looks forward to working with the new Secretary of State and building on the positive relationship with Defra.
”We eagerly anticipate the creation of a much needed National Food Strategy which encourages growth, respect for food and drink as an essential resource, and which drives sustainable consumption and production. Alongside partners from the Food and Drink Sector Council, we stand ready to deliver a thriving and productive UK food and drink industry which boosts the UK economy and provides abundant choice for shoppers.”
