A petition advocating for UK supermarket chains operating on the Isle of Man to enhance their stocking and promotion of Manx produce is set to be formally reviewed by Tynwald in December 2023. This initiative, spearheaded by John Wannenburgh MHK and supported by the Manx National Farmers’ Union (MNFU), has garnered over 1,800 signatures since its launch in the summer. The growing concern among the island’s farming community centers on the limited visibility of local produce in supermarkets, which raises crucial questions about the island’s food security.
The issue became particularly pressing earlier this year when the Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture disclosed that only 6% of food sold on the Isle of Man originates from local sources. Supporters of the petition describe this statistic as “staggeringly low,” highlighting that an island with a rich agricultural heritage and capable producers of high-quality meat, dairy, and horticultural products should not face such an imbalance in its food supply chain.
While much of the public discourse has focused on Tesco, the largest supermarket on the Isle of Man, campaigners acknowledge its recent efforts to expand its range of Manx products. In contrast, they argue that other retailers, including Co-op and Marks & Spencer, have made minimal progress in promoting and stocking local goods.
Call for Legislative Action
The petition calls for Tynwald to consider new legislation that would mandate all UK supermarket chains operating on the island to “procure, supply, and promote Manx produce,” ensuring that it is readily available on store shelves, including seasonal items. Additionally, it urges the government to prioritize the inclusion of Manx food within public services, especially in schools and hospitals. Supporters believe that the recent rollout of a new school meals scheme, which is already increasing the use of local ingredients, should be expanded and formalized.
In a statement celebrating the petition’s acceptance onto the December Tynwald order paper, the MNFU expressed gratitude to the Isle of Man’s residents who signed the petition. They stated, “Huge thanks to more than 1,800 wonderful people of the Isle of Man who signed our petition.” The union acknowledged the challenges faced during the petition process but noted that it has been accepted for review from December 9 to 11, 2023.
Maintaining Consumer Choice
While the MNFU strongly advocates for increasing the visibility and availability of local produce, they clarified that the petition does not aim to limit consumer choice. “We have not demanded that supermarkets are ‘forced’ to stock local, and we are not advocating for the removal of food choices,” the union stated. They emphasized that with only 6% of total food consumption on the island being Manx, the security of the local food supply and acknowledgment of local food’s value has diminished significantly.
Petitioners Sarah Jane Comish, Ean Parsons, and Murray Cringle now await Tynwald’s response during the upcoming December session. The outcome of this petition could have lasting implications for the agricultural community and food security on the Isle of Man.
