22 November 2023
The Chancellor’s statement today made minimal reference to the Government’s commitment to easing cost of living pressures and supporting families in difficulty, and once again failed to address any measures that will aid the redistribution of enormous amounts of surplus food – which might otherwise go to waste – to people in need.
FareShare’s CEO George Wright has this response today’s announcement:
“The impact of the cost of living crisis continues to be felt across the country – people are still finding it more challenging than ever to make ends meet. Today was the opportunity to make a difference to the lives of the millions of people across the UK who are struggling.
However, today’s speech doesn’t go far enough. One in five people experience food insecurity yet 7bn meals worth of good-to-eat food be wasted every year. This is another missed opportunity to support people who need help right now, simultaneously saving surplus food and reducing its effect on the environment.
With the recent launch of the Coronation Food Project, the food industry made a bold move in committing to collaborating on reducing food waste and redistributing more surplus to people and communities in need. It’s time for the Government to catch up and help get edible surplus food to people who need it.”
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