Julian questions Ministers on food science and tech investment for North Yorkshire
June 13, 2018
Julian yesterday pressed Ministers at the Department for Business to deliver on plans to support investment and innovation in science and technology for food production, a sector of particular importance for North Yorkshire.
During questions to the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, Greg Clark, in the House of Commons, he asked:
“The industrial strategy’s commitment to supporting new innovation and investment in science and technology for food production was much welcomed, especially in areas such as North Yorkshire. Will the Minister update the House on what the Government are doing to deliver on these ambitions so that we can fully realise the sector’s potential as a source of high-skill jobs and growing exports?”
Responding for the government, the Minister for Universities, Science, Research and Innovation, Sam Gyimah said:
“My hon. Friend is right to mention agri-tech. As he is aware, we set out in the industrial sector that agri-tech is one of the six priority areas for the artificial intelligence and data economy grand challenge. On progress in what we are doing, we have announced a £90 million transforming food production challenge, which will continue to bring together the UK’s world-class agri-food sector with expertise in robotics, AI [artificial intelligence] and data science”
After leaving the Commons chamber, Julian said:
“I am glad to hear that Ministers are making progress on this, and will continue to hold the government to account to ensure our region can benefit from new investment and innovation in the food sector as a result of the new Industrial Strategy
One of the most significant commitments the government was re-elected on last year was to try and increase our national spend on research and development up to the OECD average of 2.4% of GDP. Investing in food science and tech should be an important part of this, and one that offers significant opportunities for new jobs and better skills, advancing economic growth in North Yorkshire.”
To view a video of the question, please click here
