The Fresh Produce Consortium today criticised the department of the environment, fisheries and foods for failing to meet the horticulture industry's needs for a full programme of research and development. The leading trade organisation told its annual press conference in London that cutbacks such as the closure of HRI-Stockbridge seriously jeopardise the future of the industry – as well as its ability to fulfil the government's own objectives for food production in the country.

Speaking at the event, ceo Doug Henderson said that although the FPC applauded Defra's recently-stated aims in its document, Working for the Essentials of Life – safe and nutritious food, environmental conservation and sustainable development - recent government action has been incongruous with achieving them successfully. In a food industry where emphasis on assured produce and the use of integrated pest management is growing, research has a critical role to play, he added.

Pledging to take the matter up formally with minister for food Lord Whitty, Henderson said: 'The reality of the situation is that we require government[-funded] research to underpin IPM,' he said.

'It seems to us extraordinary that Defra articulates a vision and then slashes the funding essential to realise that vision.' The National Farmers Union launched an awareness offensive, Keep British Horticulture Growing, at the end of February – which the FPC said it will also support. 'We would certainly join hands with the NFU to give a much bigger profile to this,' said Henderson.

However, in spite of its criticisms about research cuts FPC complemented Defra for its willingness to co-operate on other important areas, such as easing the introduction of new EU import regulations.

Henderson was joined at the conference by FPC president Dick Brighten, Douglas Pattie and communications manager Nilla Murty. The four covered the FPC's work over the last year, including an update on the national fruit for schools scheme, the new European Fresh Produce Association, international codification of produce, and the UK situation with regards pesticides, as well as an overview of the FPC's media activities. The pricing policy for Chep pallets, packaging waste and gang labour issues were also covered.

Topics