NDM8814 Member Debate under Standing Order 11.21(iv) - Food

NDM8814 Jenny Rathbone (Cardiff Central)

To propose that the Senedd:

1. Notes that:

a) despite the abundance of quality food produced by Welsh farmers, the dominance of ultra-processed food in our diets has devastating consequences for the health, wealth and well-being of our nation;

b) access to affordable, healthy food is a social justice issue, with poorer communities disproportionately affected by diet-related illnesses;

c) Welsh production of 20,000 tonnes of fruit and vegetables a year is only equivalent to a quarter of a portion of fruit and vegetables a day per person;

d) expanding sustainable local food production can help reduce food miles, improve food security, and create green jobs in Wales; and

e) the transition to a sustainable food nation requires a joined up, collaborative, preventative approach in line with the well-being of future generations Act.

2. Calls on the Welsh Government to:

a) develop a holistic, joined up government strategy to improve people’s diets;

b) promote the benefits of fresh, unprocessed food to encourage dietary shifts and tackle the dominance of ultra-processed foods;

c) use the welcome investment in local food partnerships to bring together growers, caterers and eaters to expand Welsh horticulture;

d) accelerate work to produce a community food strategy within the Sixth Senedd; and

e) use the power of public procurement to improve the food served to pupils, patients and people living in care homes.

Co-submitters

Llyr Gruffydd (North Wales)

Peter Fox (Monmouth)

Supporters

James Evans (Brecon and Radnorshire)

Julie Morgan (Cardiff North)