The food industry -- comprising food manufacturers and retailers, who between them represent the UK's biggest manufacturing sector and employ more than 10% of the workforce -- are becoming ever more agitated about Brexit. They are worried about where their labour supply is going to come from, and how any new trade deal will affect the cost of their imports and the prices at which they can sell exports.
Two new publications from their main trade associations aim to help the government tackle their problems. Pointing out that feeding people is 'a matter of national security', the Food and Drink Federation, representing manufacturers, has published a list of 10 Key Priorities, endorsed by 26 signatories (available here). Top of the list are avoiding a 'cliff-edge' transition and negotiating a right-to-remain for the EU workforce.
Meanwhile the British Retail Consortium has produced a Tariff Roadmap (available here), as part of its 'fair Brexit for Consumers' series. Here the number one priority is maintaining tariff-free trade wth the EU.
The Sustain Alliance campaigns for greener, fairer and healthier food systems, for everyone. Find out more about our coordinating work for a Better Food Britain post-Brexit, and support us, here.
Good Food Trade Campaign: Campaigning for good trade that benefits people and the planet at home and overseas.
