Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what steps she is taking to ensure the (a) adequacy and (b) resilience of supplies of ammonia as a feedstock for fertiliser.

We are aware of recent announcements in industry which mean a reduction to prospects for domestic production of ammonia, however Defra and wider government do not anticipate issues as we have recently been reliant on an import model without experiencing any issues.  If companies experience difficulties in accessing the chemicals they need, then Defra and wider government encourage them to engage with their suppliers. If this does not resolve any challenges, then they should engage with their industry bodies.

With regards to ammonium nitrate fertilisers, the UK typically imports fertiliser products from more than 20 countries. The supply chain has remained dynamic and we understand farmers have been able to purchase fertiliser for the 2023 growing season. Defra continues to monitor the situation and work closely with other government departments and industry to understand fertiliser supply, demand and price challenges.