HTA responds to the Queen's speech

Speaking after the Queen’s speech outlined plans to “deliver a national recovery from the pandemic”, James Clark, HTA Director of Policy and Communications, said: 

“As a sector that underpins around half of the Government’s 25 Year Environment Plan, we welcome a greater focus on the environment in government policymaking. We need to see better recognition of the sector in the proposed Environmental Land Management (ELMs) schemes. The proposed introduction of a deposit return scheme for single use plastic and its impact on the sector, needs careful examination. 

A Subsidies Controls Bill is a concept that needs to be directed towards the government’s commitment to supporting new green industries. It is of great importance to the horticulture sector and to the overall wellbeing of the UK. We are committed to working with governments to ensure these plans come to fruition and businesses are supported throughout the pandemic and beyond.”