A petition advocating for UK supermarket chains on the Isle of Man to enhance their stocking and promotion of local produce is set to be formally reviewed by Tynwald in December. Launched during the summer by John Wannenburgh MHK and supported by the Manx National Farmers’ Union (MNFU), the petition has garnered over 1,800 signatures. This initiative stems from rising concerns among local farmers regarding the visibility of Manx products in supermarkets and their implications for the island’s food security.
Earlier this year, the issue gained prominence when the Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture disclosed that only 6% of food sold on the Isle of Man is sourced locally. This statistic has alarmed supporters who argue that it reflects a significant imbalance in the supply chain, jeopardizing the island’s agricultural heritage and food security. The Isle of Man is home to a variety of producers capable of offering high-quality meat, dairy, and horticultural products, making the low percentage particularly concerning.
While much of the public discourse has focused on Tesco, the largest supermarket on the island, some campaigners recognize that the retailer has gradually expanded its range of Manx products in recent years. In contrast, other retailers, such as Co-op and Marks & Spencer, are perceived to have made less progress in promoting local goods. The petition calls on Tynwald to introduce new legislation that would require all UK supermarket chains operating on the island to procure, supply, and promote Manx produce, ensuring that it is readily available on shelves, including seasonal items.
Government Support and Local Initiatives
The petition also urges the government to prioritize local food across all public services, particularly in schools and hospitals. Supporters of the petition highlight the recent rollout of a new school meals scheme, which has increased the use of local ingredients. They believe this initiative should be expanded and formalized to further support Manx farmers.
In a statement regarding the petition’s acceptance onto the Tynwald order paper for the session scheduled from December 9 to 11, 2023, the MNFU expressed gratitude to the community: “Huge thanks to more than 1,800 wonderful people of the Isle of Man who signed our petition.” The union emphasized the collaborative effort that led to the petition’s acceptance, acknowledging the hard work of the MNFU and Hon. Mr. John Wannenburgh MHK.
It is important to note that the MNFU clarified that the petition does not intend to restrict consumer choice or compel retailers to exclusively stock Manx goods. “We have not demanded that supermarkets are ‘forced’ to stock local, and we are not advocating for the removal of food choices,” the statement read. They argue that with Manx produce comprising only 6% of total food consumption on the island, there is a pressing need to enhance local food recognition and security.
As the December Tynwald sitting approaches, petitioners Sarah Jane Comish, Ean Parsons, and Murray Cringle await the government’s response to their call for action on this critical issue. The outcome may shape the future of local produce availability and the agricultural landscape on the Isle of Man.
