Lib Dems push for British beef labelling on menus

The Liberal Democrats have tabled an amendment to a parliamentary bill that would force the UK government to consider introducing mandatory country-of-origin labelling for meat on menus in large restaurants – a move they say could boost demand for British beef.

As part of the party’s wider “Buy British” campaign, the amendment to the Product Regulation and Metrology Bill would require a government review of the feasibility and benefits of adding meat origin details to menus in large food service businesses employing more than 250 people.

See also: UK beef set for export growth after BSE risk downgrade

The push follows strong consumer support for clearer food labelling and industry concerns about the standards of imported beef from countries such as the US, where practices such as hormone treatment and lower animal welfare standards are permitted.

According to NFU research, 65% of consumers are more likely to visit a venue sourcing ingredients from British farms, while 70% agree that food origin transparency in restaurants is important.

Lib Dem Treasury spokesperson Daisy Cooper MP said it was time the Labour government gave farmers “a leg up” after damaging trade deals and rising financial pressures.

“Farmers are being hammered time and again – by the Conservatives’ botched trade deals and now by Labour’s plans for a punitive family farm tax,” she said.

“With so many farmers fearful about what the future might hold, we’re calling on the government to help boost demand for British beef from farm to fork.”

Customers ‘want British’

Ms Cooper added: “Better labelling of British produce on the menus of big restaurants would give farmers and growers a leg up and provide customers with the choice to buy British.

“British farming standards for animal welfare and the environment are world-leading, and many restaurant-goers want to support them.”

The proposed clause requires the government to consult with farmers, the hospitality industry, food safety bodies, and others before reporting back to parliament within six months of the Act’s passage.

The NFU and others in the food and farming sectors have long argued that improved food labelling is essential to support domestic producers and ensure fairness in a competitive market.