Food industry parliamentary group

- Published: 18 July, 2008

A food industry parliamentary group has been launched to develop the profile of the UK's biggest manufacturing sector and promote its interests in Parliament.

The All Party Parliamentary Food and Drink Manufacturing Industry Group (APPG) will also provide a point of reference for Parliamentarians who are not members, but want to better understand topical issues, such as increasing food prices, the impact of the food sector on the environment and the work that the industry is doing to help consumers make healthier choices.

The Group has over 40 Parliamentarians as members and includes some very experienced and influential representatives including the Rt Hon Nick Brown, MP; Rt Hon Ian McCartney, MP; Lord Haskins; and Rt Hon Elliot Morley, MP.

Bill Wiggin MP has been confirmed as chair, with vice-chairs Linda Riordan MP and Tim Farron MP; secretary Sharon Hodgson MP and treasurer David Taylor MP.

Bill Wiggin MP said: "I'm honoured to have been appointed as chair of this important group. The food and drink manufacturing industry is one of the largest sectors in the UK, employing 470,000 people.

"A key aim of this group will be to see that this significant industry is supported and represented in important policy debates about its future."