The UK's welfare cuts threaten to place it in default of UN obligations, a monitoring committee finds
The UK government must take steps to restore the link between rates of state benefits and the cost of living, in order to meet its obligations as a signatory to a key UN covenant. These obligations include the provision of an adequate standard of living, including access to food.
It should also develop a comprehensive National Strategy for the protection and promotion of the right to adequate food, in order to address food insecurity in the UK.
These are some of the conclusions of the the UN Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (the body of 18 independent experts that monitors implementation of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights), which recently concluded its sixth 'periodic report' on the UK.
The Food Strategy should include policies in support of breastfeeding, for example through the use of breastfeeding breaks and the inclusion of breastfeeding facilities in educational institutions and workplaces.
The Committee also recommends the use of taxes on junk foods and sugary drinks, and urges the UK and devolved governments to consider adopting strict regulations on the marketing of these foods, while ensuring improved access to healthy diets.
Read the Committee's report here, and find out more about Sustain's campaigns for a fairer food system here.
Published Friday 1 July 2016
Sustain: Sustain The alliance for better food and farming advocates food and agriculture policies and practices that enhance the health and welfare of people and animals, improve the working and living environment, enrich society and culture and promote equity.
