Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of the temporary suspension of tariffs on imported food products on (a) food prices, (b) household grocery bills, (c) domestic food producers and (d) British farmers; what consultation she has undertaken with representatives of the agricultural and food manufacturing sectors; and what mechanisms will be used to ensure that any savings are passed on to consumers.

The two packages of agri-food tariff suspensions will reduce import costs for the included items and bear down on consumer costs. The benefit to consumers is estimated to be around a combined £330m to £770m annually for the initial package which has been implemented and the second package which is currently being consulted on.

The list of products for which tariff suspensions are proposed takes account of domestic production and food security and does not include any significant UK primary agriculture production. The list of products is subject to further engagement with the farming industry, food manufacturers and other stakeholders. This call for input is due to close on 24^th June.

The UK grocery market is highly competitive, and we expect that retailers will pass on the full cost savings.