Preface by the Prime Minister
This Government took office committed to setting up an independent Food Standards Agency, which would be powerful, open and dedicated to the interests of consumers. Professor Philip James' report, which I received on 8 May, provided an excellent foundation on which to build this long-overdue reform.
Since then the Government has consulted widely, finding widespread support for change. This White Paper sets out proposals that will transform the way food standards issues are handled in this country. For too long, consumers in the United Kingdom have suffered from uncertainty and confusion about the quality and safety of the food they buy. Our food and farming industries have been damaged as a result.
The Government is determined to do away with the old climate of secrecy and suspicion and replace it with modern, open arrangements which will deliver real improvements in standards. This fresh approach will help to command the confidence of consumers, industry and our partners in the EU and beyond.
Tony Blair
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