Environment Secretary: food and drink workers are the “hidden heroes of this pandemic”

The government’s Environment Secretary has issued a statement in support of workers in the UK’s food and drink industry.

In a letter published today, Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs George Eustice has praised the efforts of those working in food and drink supply chains across the country throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mr Eustice said: “In light of the ongoing challenges we face as a country with Covid-19, I want to pay tribute, once again, to all of you working within our food and drink supply chains as you continue to feed the nation under such difficult circumstances. The country is grateful for all that you have done and continue to do.”

In his letter, Mr Eustace also praised the “vast majority of the public” for following social distancing guidance.

The news comes after several of the UK’s supermarket chains announced a tightening of restrictions around wearing masks.

He continued: “Food businesses have gone to extraordinary lengths to ensure workplaces are as Covid secure and as safe as possible, from managing capacity in shops, to encouraging customers to comply with regulations and guidance to keep us all safe.

“ In the last few days, supermarkets have stepped up again, building on previous work, to further tighten their measures.

“I am enormously proud of the work that you have done, and I want to thank each and every one of you. You have been, and continue to be, the hidden heroes of this pandemic.”