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

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what discussions she has had with regional mayors in England about economic growth opportunities in the agri-food chain.

Defra recognises the vital contribution the agri-food sector makes to local and regional economies across England. Defra officials engage regularly with Mayoral Strategic Authorities on a range of issues, and we are developing a broader programme of ministerial engagement with mayors. We will continue to work with regional partners to unlock growth, investment and good jobs across the agri-food chain, supporting the Prime Minister’s ambition for growth in every postcode.