The UK’s largest food suppliers have come together for the first time in a letter to the Prime Minister calling for tariff-free access to the Single Market and access to labour.
Over 70 large suppliers, including produce companies such as Fresca, G’s and Poupart and retailers Sainsbury’s and M&S, have signed the letter, which was coordinated by the UK’s farming unions.
They have called for continued access to labour and the best possible Single Market access after Brexit, and for the PM to realise the opportunities in the UK food sector.
The letter also highlights that food security, food safety and hygiene, stewardship of the countryside and affordable food is at risk if ministers fail to deliver on the two asks.
And it makes clear that Britain’s farmers and food producers are ready to work with government and calls for Britain’s food to be put at the centre of Brexit negotiations.
A Brexit settlement which recognises the critical role of the UK food chain will demonstrate how Brexit can be beneficial for the UK economy as well as UK food production, the letter said.
NFU Cymru president Stephen James said: “Brexit creates an enormous opportunity for farming, food production and for Britain. But to deliver this new future, we must secure the best possible access to the Single Market and continued access to a competent and reliable workforce. Agriculture is a litmus-test for Brexit negotiations.
“As the sector most heavily impacted by the referendum outcome, if our governments can make Welsh and British farming a success post-Brexit then it will be the clearest indication that the country can succeed outside Europe.
“This letter sends out a strong and powerful message on the importance of food and farming across Wales and the UK. I am pleased that a number of leading companies operating in Wales are signatories to this joint letter and have signed up to our key asks.”
Other signatories on the letter included AH Worth & Co, Berry Gardens, BerryWorld, Branston, Cobrey Farms, Natures Way Foods and Produce World.
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