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

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of rising energy prices on food producers.

The food supply chain is under pressure due to multiple and concurrent pressures including the Russian invasion of Ukraine and rising costs for producers (including energy and raw materials). Given sustained pressures, we anticipate food prices continuing to trend upwards in the short term.

UK food supply remains secure and supply chain resilience remains excellent. We are aware of potential impacts of rising energy costs to the food and drinks industry. Defra works closely with industry and other Government Departments to monitor, assess and respond where appropriate to mitigate these pressures. The Prime Minister has made clear that we will deal with energy bills and secure our future energy supply.