Since 2019, in addition to my emeritus academic role, I have been an elected city councillor and have developed a clearer understanding of how to translate policy into municipal action. I welcome this consultation as it highlights the important role local government can play in enhancing resilient local food systems. Important to this is listening to local people and understanding drivers to behaviour. Food security in all dimensions is critical to allow consideration for the key rate limiting steps that limit food security. Availability is obviously important, but may depend on adequate income, linked to employment. Use of urban spaces, such as allotments ( UK model) can contribute if access is equitable ( refugees etc)and linked to communities so produce is available to all. We have local experience of establishing food co-operatives that support poor families, while also stopping food being wasted. Our group takes food that would otherwise be discarded by big supermarkets and distributes it to families and vulnerable groups including homeless people. While better to grow food locally, can’t ignore role played by big supermarkets that use longer supply chains. Local councils also have a role in regulating the marketing and promotion of unhealthy food. We have also found that to get councils to act, need a nutrition in all policies approach, with responsibility and accountability at leader level and regularly scrutinised by full council. School feeding, incorporating using school space to grow food, is a key part of local food security. Local government can also affect supply through their local procurement policies and insisting on local suppliers thus bringing jobs and shorter supply chains. This keeps the money local.
Prof. Barrie Margetts