Overview

This bill mandates the UK Secretary of State to create and implement a strategy for improving the sustainability of livestock farming and livestock product consumption within two years. The strategy will cover economic, social, and environmental aspects, requiring parliamentary approval before implementation and annual progress reports to Parliament.

Description

The bill aims to enhance the sustainability of livestock farming and related consumption by focusing on several key areas:

• Strategy Development: The Secretary of State must develop a strategy within two years, outlining proposals to improve sustainability. This includes using subsidies/grants, taxes/levies to influence farming practices, impacting public procurement of livestock produce, public information campaigns on consumer behavior, defining government positions in international policy forums, setting targets for greenhouse gas emissions and biodiversity loss reduction, and supporting research and development.
• Consultation: Extensive consultation is required with various stakeholders, including farmers, food producers, retailers, environmental and health experts, consumer representatives, and relevant government advisory bodies.
• Parliamentary Approval: The draft strategy must be approved by both Houses of Parliament before implementation.
• Annual Reporting: Annual progress reports detailing implementation progress, target achievement, and environmental impact data (greenhouse gas emissions and biodiversity loss) are mandated.
• Full Life-Cycle Impact and Global Impact: The strategy must consider the full life-cycle impact of any policy implemented and the global impact of livestock farming and consumption.

Government Spending

The bill states that any expenses incurred by the Secretary of State in implementing the Act, and any increase in sums payable under other enactments, will be met from funds provided by Parliament. Specific figures are not provided in the bill text.

Groups Affected

• Farmers and Food Producers: Potentially affected by subsidies, taxes, and changes in farming practices.
• Food Processors and Retailers: Impacted by changes in public procurement and consumer demand.
• Consumers: May experience changes in food prices and availability due to altered farming practices and consumption encouragement/discouragement policies.
• Environmental Groups: May see changes in greenhouse gas emissions and biodiversity loss due to the implementation of the strategy.
• Government Agencies: Responsible for strategy development, implementation, monitoring, and reporting.

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