MERIDEN MP Saqib Bhatti has signed an open letter from more than 100 MPs calling on supermarkets to back British produce.
The MPs have called for retailers to incorporate a ‘Buy British’ section on their online stores.
The letter, which was penned by Hinckley and Bosworth MP Dr Luke Evans, calls on supermarkets to ‘create a tab that collates produce from farmers,’ citing consumer choice, environmental benefits and support for farmers as reasons to make the change.
The MPs say the change could be achieved ‘by the click of a mouse’, with many shops already labelling British products, therefore the online change is simply bringing the produce to the fore in a ‘one-stop online shop’ for the public to better identify homegrown produce.
Mr Bhatti said: “I’m pleased to have supported this important initiative and a coalition of over 100 MPs. Together, we’ve rallied for stores to cast a spotlight on the finest British produce, adding a dedicated ‘Buy British’ section to their websites.
“I’m so happy to stand behind our remarkable farmers and food artisans by advocating for the ‘Buy British’ button. This simple change on a webpage helps to ensure homegrown food is easily identifiable, something I wholeheartedly support.
“This drive elevates our local champions, reaffirms environmental stewardship, and empowers consumers. These principles yield a trio of benefits—for producers, the planet, and the public.”
In a survey carried out by the National Farmers Union (NFU), 61 per cent of respondent farmers said the supply chain and market volatility have negative impacts on their mental health, with 80 per cent of dairy farmers in a second NFU survey citing cash flow and profitability as key factors which throw the future of their business into doubt.
