Yet another report shows the public want protection of food standards and animal welfare.  

Recently reports and polling has yet again indicated that the public want the UK to keep its current food and animal welfare standards.

The Demos report into food in a pandemic funded by the Food Standard Agency (FSA) and published this month clearly indicates that high food standards and animal welfare standards around food in the UK, are seen as non-negotiable by the public, even if this comes at the expense of international trade deals and higher food prices.

It states 78% support the UK keeping its current food quality standards & 82 % support the UK keeping its current animal welfare standards, even if food is more expensive and less competitive in the global market.

The report also goes onto say that the public feel in principle that if cheaper food means lower safety standards, we need to ensure those on low incomes are protected from poor quality food.

This comprehensive report covers a wide range of issues on food related issues, that were a concern to the public. Link to the report below.
 
https://demos.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Food-in-a-Pandemic.pdf
 
Reports in the last few years have indicated that the public want enforcement of the rules (Regulations) across a wide range of societal issues such as environmental protection (including fly tipping), food safety, animal welfare, Health and safety, employment, Trading standards, the Crown Prosecution Service etc.
 
See the link below to Unchecked, who have done some excellent work in this area for their reports.
 
https://unchecked.uk
 
Sadly, due to austerity budget cuts for Government Departments, Agencies, councils etc who carry these enforcement activities, it means there are less people undertaking this work, which does not help in our protection.
 
Some people say regulation & enforcement is red tape or the nanny state, but I believe those saying it use it as a tactic of fear, by those who do not believe in playing by the rules, which enables a level playing field for all.     
 
In relation to food it seems quite surprising that the FSA have decided on a new regulatory system with less physical inspections by truly independent staff, given the public’s view is to maintain or improve our standards. 
 
Thank you for your continued help and support.

Stay safe.