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<p>The Government recognises the crucial role the UK's horticulture industry plays
in both feeding the country and in promoting people's health and wellbeing. The UK
has the climate, the landscape, and entrepreneurial farmers and growers to enable
us to produce world-class fruit and vegetables.</p><p> </p><p>We are proud of our
growing food reputation. Protected Geographical Indications (PGIs), whether they be
for beef from Scotland, lamb from Wales or asparagus from the Vale of Evesham in England,
play an important role as exemplars of our quality produce. We are committed to celebrating
the success of these regional and traditional products whose authenticity and origin
can be guaranteed, along with driving further market access to make sure they are
enjoyed here and around the world.</p><p> </p><p>We will always champion our farmers
and growers, supporting them to grow more of our great British food and to provide
a reliable and sustainable food supply to the British public. This includes through
using powers under our landmark Agriculture Bill, and through our work with the Food
and Drink Sector Council, a formal industry partnership with the Government, helping
to create a more productive and sustainable food and drink sector.</p><p> </p><p>The
UK has a high degree of food security, built on access to a range of sources including
strong domestic production and imports from other countries. Half of the food we eat
is produced in the UK. The rest of our food is imported, with 30% coming from the
EU and 20% from other countries. The UK's current production to supply ratio is 75%
for indigenous-type foods and 61% for all foods. We produce 61% - 75% of our food
supply, but some of that is exported.</p><p> </p><p>Under the current EU State Aid
rules we have been unable to promote our home produced food and drink to the domestic
market in Government sponsored campaigns nationally. However, we continue to work
with regional food groups to showcase their top-quality produce locally; tying this
up where we can with stakeholder initiatives (such as those of the AHDB), focussing
on provenance and the UKs world-leading standards of food safety, animal welfare and
environmental protection.</p>
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