Jim Rogers, chairman of the FPC Importers’ Division and I attended a meeting with John Hayes, MP for South Holland and the Deepings, in Spalding, Lincs. We discussed industry concerns over the protracted implementation of plant health legislation and proposed Defra restructure. The meeting was constructive and the dialogue is expected to continue with a further meeting in the near future.

PESTICIDE RESIDUES

The latest pesticide residue monitoring results for the School Fruit & Vegetable Scheme published recently confirm the fresh produce industry’s ongoing dedication to providing the nation with high quality, nutritious and safe food. Perhaps it is time the industry started proactively shouting about these excellent achievements instead of reacting to ill-informed NGO statements. I would welcome your comments.

FPC WEBSITE

Keep a look out over the next couple of weeks for the new FPC website. This exciting project is reaching conclusion and we believe it will be worth the wait, packed full of useful information and updates to members.

On behalf of the FPC, I would like to wish you all a very happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year.