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

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what assessment he has made of the potential effect on (a) the Northern Ireland agrifood sector and (b) food prices of not reaching an SPS agreement with the EU by the end of the transition period.

The Government works closely with the Northern Ireland Executive on devolved agri-food matters and is committed to ensuring that we maximise the opportunities for Northern Ireland having left the EU. It remains committed to a New Deal for Northern Ireland, which includes appropriate commitments to help boost economic growth and Northern Ireland’s competitiveness.

The Government monitors food prices on a monthly basis through the Consumer Prices Index including Housing Costs (CPIH). The Government does not have direct control over food prices, but it constantly monitors and investigates factors and changes that can potentially have an impact on food prices. The Government works closely with the Northern Ireland Executive on devolved agri-food matters.

We want a relationship with the EU which is based on friendly cooperation between sovereign equals and centred on free trade. We will continue to work closely with industry to promote transparency for consumers, and internationally to promote open and sustainable global markets.