Securing food supplies: Inquiry launch

The House of Commons Environment, Food & Rural Affairs Select Committee will be breaking new ground by holding an open discussion at Borough Market to launch its new inquiry into the strengths and weakness of the UK food system, and the opportunities and challenges the country faces in responding to the global demand for increased food production.

Speakers will include Tim Lang, Professor of Food Policy at City University and a Trustee of Borough Market; Peter Kendall, President of the National Farmers Union; and the food writer Jenny Linford.

There will then be the opportunity for questions and comments from the audience.

Afterwards, MPs will visit the market and talk with stall holders and market-goers about issues they face.

The terms of reference for the inquiry will be available at the meeting, as will details of how to submit evidence to the committee.

"The dramatic rise in food prices last year raised the political profile of food policy and resulted in new interest in the subject from Government," says committee chairman Rt Hon Michael Jack MP.

"The UN has estimated that food production needs to double by 2050 to meet population increases. Some prices are beginning to fall again, but the long-term issue of securing food supplies needs to be addressed, which is why we are launching the inquiry. The Committee is keen to hear from as many people as possible as their comments will help to shape the direction of our inquiry. Feeding the nation is an issue that affects us all."

Members of the public are encouraged to attend the launch, but please note that space is limited and seats will be allocated on a first come, first served basis.