The EFRA Committee continues its inquiry exploring the impacts of the UK-Australia free trade agreement (FTA) on food and agriculture with its third evidence session on the subject on Tuesday 8 March at 2.30pm.
The session’s first panel will focus on the FTA’s ramifications for animal welfare and the environment. Topics are likely to include concerns around the differing animal welfare standards between UK and Australia, the deal’s environmental impact, and how the UK enforces its bans on hormone-treated beef and chlorinated chicken.
A second panel will consider possible effects of the FTA on UK consumers, retailers, and the hospitality sector. MPs are likely to seek witnesses’ views on the deal’s potential influence on sources of beef, lamb and sugar imports, as well as its impact on UK food prices and supply chains.
Dr Neil Hudson MP for Penrith and The Border and Member of the EFRA Committee said:
“Our EFRA Committee this week will continue to scrutinise the Australia Trade Deal. I have significant concerns about the deal and the fact that our UK farmers may be undercut by cheaper products. As a Conservative MP I have a seat on this important Committee unlike some of the smaller parties. I am not afraid to stand up to the Government and do the right thing standing up for animal welfare and our fantastic Cumbrian and UK farmers.”
The witnesses will be:
Panel 1 (from 2.30pm):
- James Russell, Senior Vice President, British Veterinary Association
- Orla Delargy, Head of Public Affairs, Sustain
- Anna Sands, Trade Policy Specialist, WWF
Panel 2 (from 3.30pm):
- Sue Davies MBE, Head of Consumer Rights and Food Policy, Which?
- Andrew Opie, Director, British Retail Consortium
- Kate Nicholls OBE, CEO, UK Hospitality
ENDS
