POLICY COMMISSION PUBLISHES REPORT ON FUTURE OF FARMING AND FOOD



The Policy Commission on the Future of Farming and Food presented its report
to the Government today.

Farming and Food: A Sustainable Future was handed over to Defra Secretary of
State Margaret Beckett by Commission chairman Sir Donald Curry.


The Prime Minister, who set up the Commission last August, said:


"I am extremely grateful to Sir Donald, other members of the Policy
Commission, and all those who have contributed their views for the thought,
enthusiasm and sheer hard work that I know has gone into this report.


"Farming was our first industry, and food production probably our second.
Their role is growing ever wider: providing safe, quality food and exports,
supporting the rural economy, and managing some of the most beautiful
landscape in the world. And they remain vitally important to this country.


"However, agriculture needs to change. As the Commission note, the current
situation benefits no-one: farmers, taxpayers, consumers, or the

environment. Farmers struggling with the lowest incomes for decades don't
need me to tell them that.


"The Commission's vision for a future of sustainable food and farming
industries is one that many will find attractive. But, as ever, the
challenge is in getting there. We want to work with farmers and all other
stakeholders to build a consensus for change. Margaret Beckett and I are
fully committed to delivering on this challenge."


Margaret Beckett said:


"I would like to add my thanks to those of the Prime Minister. Sir Donald
and his Commissioners have worked very hard and have delivered a very
interesting and thorough report.


"A sustainable and profitable future for our farming and food industries is
of major importance for the Government. The report is clear that its
recommendations are not just for Government, which is why I want to work
closely with farmers and stakeholders to turn our vision into a reality.


What we have now is a system that rewards farmers for producing quantity,
not necessarily quality, and is a disincentive to the restructuring and
modernisation that our agriculture needs.


"This report points the way towards greater co-operation across the food
chain, greater attention to the needs of consumers and a proper appreciation
of the importance farming has for our rural environment. I believe it offers
a sound basis for taking our work forward together. The Government stands
ready to work with the food and farming industries as they address the
challenges they face."

Health Secretary Alan Millburn said:


"Tackling cancer and heart disease means investing in prevention as well as
treatment. Improving diet and nutrition is a key preventive measure. The
food and farming community has a vital role to play in reaching our health
goals - to increase fruit and vegetable consumption and reduce fat, salt and
sugar intake. The National School Fruit Scheme shows how good ideas and
investment can encourage healthier eating. I welcome this report and its
vision for making healthier food more widely available."


The Policy Commission's report is available at
www.cabinet-office.gov.uk/farming2.