The UK food sector "not critically important" - discuss.

UK food security suddenly seems more important doesn't it? 

About three weeks ago, one of the most senior government advisers said the UK does not need its farming or fishing industries.

Apparently, Dr Tim Leunig is understood to have said the food sector was “not critically important” to the country’s economy – and that agriculture and fisheries “certainly isn’t”.

The economic adviser to the chancellor is reported to have said that ministers could follow the example of Singapore, which is “rich without having its own agricultural sector”.

In the light of the current Covid-19 crisis, in which much of the world’s transport networks have all but shut down, I’m left wondering if this “highly intelligent” economic adviser is still of the same opinion, just three weeks later?

The UK’s farming community has constantly raised the importance of “food security” to Government, and yet in recent times, DEFRA minister after DEFRA minister have given speeches about the future of the countryside, often failing to even mention agriculture.

Of course, it is so very easy to criticise or ignore farmers whilst shelves are stacked high with incredibly cheap food and UK citizens bellies are full.

But what happens when the chips are down (excuse the pun) and supermarket shelves start to become empty and all the talk is suddenly about food supplies?

If nothing else, the Covid-19 crisis might make future UK Governments (and their advisers) realise just how important UK food producers are to the well-being and security of our nation.

In fact, let’s hope that we all become a little more appreciative of our farmers and growers.