Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what steps she is taking to protect British agricultural produce from foreign competition.

Strengthening food security by supporting our farmers and food producers is a priority for this Government. Defra is backing British farmers to create a productive, profitable and sustainable future for farming.

As set out in the UK’s Trade Strategy, Defra will not lower food standards and will uphold high animal welfare standards. Defra recognises concerns about methods of production which are not permitted in the UK.

While production methods vary in line with different climates, diseases and other contextual reasons, Defra will always consider whether overseas produce has an unfair advantage and any impact that may have. Where necessary, Defra will be prepared to use the full range of powers at our disposal to protect our most sensitive sectors.