UK Food Supply Chain Faces Growing Risks from Climate and Cyber Threats

• •NAO report emphasizes the need for improved food supply chain resilience in the UK.
• •Defra has not adequately engaged stakeholders for emergency preparedness.
• •The UK relies on imports for over a third of its food, increasing vulnerability.

The National Audit Office (NAO) has released a report urging the UK government to enhance the resilience of the food supply chain against increasing risks from climate change, disease outbreaks, and cyber-attacks. The Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) has made some progress in preparedness but has not sufficiently engaged households, communities, and businesses in emergency planning. The report highlights that the UK relies on overseas imports for over a third of its food, making it vulnerable to disruptions. Despite businesses managing to maintain supply during past crises like the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine, there is a growing concern about their ability to cope without more government support. The NAO recommends that Defra learn from international practices and involve local governments and industries in testing emergency plans. The report also notes that UK households are less prepared for emergencies compared to several other European nations.