Low Food Mileage Supports Local Producers-George

2.24.29pm BST (GMT +0100) Tue 26th Aug 2003

Andrew George MP, Liberal Democrat Shadow Food and Rural Affairs Secretary

Commenting on Food Minister Lord Whitty's call for public sector purchasers to give British farmers a "fairer crack of the whip", Andrew George MP, Liberal Democrat Shadow Food and Rural Affairs Secretary, said: "These are encouraging words from the Government and, after a slow start, it is finally showing some support for local producers. But these promises must be followed swiftly with action."

"Local authorities government departments must not be restricted in their choices by having cost as the only criteria for awarding contracts. The Government must issue guidance encouraging public sector purchasers to take quality and 'food miles' into equal consideration."

"Ministers should also work with their European counterparts to advance a policy of high quality, low food mileage in public sector catering contracts, in line with the European Commission's aim of promoting good environmental practice."