Is the UK too reliant on imports of food?

Some Brexiteers are arguing that warnings of threats to our food supply show the UK should produce more food at home. But is it true that the UK imports more food than is sensible? Ben Chu investigates

In the absence of a sudden desire among the British population to return to the land, increasing domestic horticultural production will require an influx of migrant workers (PA)

The haulage crisis and Brexit have served to draw attention in recent days to the extent to which the UK relies on food imports.

As lorries piled up in Kent, industry representatives told MPs that, while there would be sufficient food to prevent shortages for Christmas Day, gaps could start appearing from 27 December if hauliers were unable to leave the UK and return with fresh supplies from the Continent.

Supermarkets and hauliers have also warned in recent months that a no-deal Brexit would mean disruption to food supplies from 31 December. Even the new checks and paperwork that would accompany a successful free trade deal make some disruption likely, according to hauliers.