Winchester & Chandler’s Ford MP Steve Brine has welcomed the Government’s new Trade and Agriculture Commission which counts retailers, farming unions, consumer, hospitality and environmental bodies from across the UK as members.
It will be chaired by food safety expert Tim Smith, a former Chief Executive of the Food Standards Agency and Tesco Group Technical Director, and will advise Government on how to seize new export opportunities, while ensuring animal welfare and environmental standards in food production are not undermined.
The scope of the Commission was agreed after close consultation between farming unions, the Department for International Trade and Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.
Steve Brine says; “Ministers are working round the clock to ensure that any trade deal we strike brings the very best opportunities to the UK’s farming community.
“They recognise the importance of engaging with the agriculture industry and seeking expert advice, which is why we have set up the Commission. We are putting British farming first and giving our producers the best opportunity to export their world class food abroad and grow their businesses. Our high food and animal welfare standards, which matter a great deal to me and many of my constituents won’t be compromised as we promised at the recent General Election.”
George Eustice, Environment Secretary added; “The new Commission will ensure that the UK’s agricultural industry, our support for farmers and our commitment to high welfare standards are maintained. This Government will work hard to ensure any future trade deals are in their best interests and will prioritise both food production and our world-leading environmental targets.”
Pictured; Steve Brine speaking in the House of Commons.
