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<p>As a responsible government, we are preparing for all eventualities including that
of leaving the European Union without a deal. Extensive work to prepare for a ‘no
deal’ scenario has been under way for the last two years to ensure the country continues
to operate as smoothly as possible from the day we leave.</p><p> </p><p>It is sensible
contingency planning for the Government to ensure providers for critical public services
are prepared and ready for a no deal. Lead departments for specific public sector
catering (e.g. DHSC for hospital trusts, DfE for schools and MoJ for prisons) have
been talking to key food suppliers to those public services to ensure resilient supply
chains. Defra is also working closely with MHCLG to ensure local authorities are involved
as part of wider planning in case of a no deal scenario. Departments are confident
that the supply of quality, nutritious meals in public sector settings will be maintained,
in all scenarios.</p><p> </p><p>Regarding food prices, we have observed that the most
important drivers of change in the cost of food on an ongoing basis are commodity
prices, exchange rates and oil prices. This will continue to be the case once the
UK has left the EU. The UK Government has no direct control of these factors; we work
closely with industry to promote transparency for consumers and internationally to
promote open global markets.</p>
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