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<p>Food is a critical national infrastructure sector and Defra has lead Government
department oversight of responsibility for food supply in England. The policy is devolved
to Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland in the constitutional settlement.</p><p> </p><p>Defra
is not responsible for the supply of food and drink to the population in an emergency,
and the expertise, capability and levers to plan for and respond to food supply disruption
lie within the industry. However, we have well established relationships with the
food and drink sectors, and we work collaboratively with the food industry and across
Government to support coherent and robust industry contingency planning and response
in the event of an incident situation. The food industry is experienced in dealing
with scenarios that can affect food supply.</p><p> </p><p>Local authorities do not
have a general duty to provide food but have duties to provide food to particular
groups in particular circumstances, including schools and care settings. Public sector
food provision for specific sectors is led by the relevant Government departments.
Defra works with lead Departments (including DfE, DHSC and MoJ) to support their contingency
planning for food supply to public services. Defra’s role involves providing advice
and support to these departments who in turn work with their public services to ensure
that supply is resilient.</p><p> </p><p>We are committed to a strong safety net for
those who need it, which is why this Government continues to spend over £90 billion
a year on welfare benefits.</p>
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