Ministers have rejected calls to give farmers and food businesses more time to prepare for a future UK-EU sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) deal, raising concerns over how the sector will cope with potentially disruptive changes. The government confirmed it will not pursue a transition period ahead of new arrangements expected from mid-2027, despite warnings that many businesses are already under pressure and may struggle to adapt. MPs on the Environment, Food and Rural Affair

UK households are facing a sharp rise in the cost of their weekly shop, with new figures suggesting families could be paying an extra £470 a year for groceries as food price inflation remains persistently high. According to data highlighted in a report by the Manchester Evening News , the average annual grocery bill has climbed significantly, reaching around £5,617. The increase reflects continued pressure on household budgets despite wider inflation easing in other areas of

Marks & Spencer has reduced prices across a range of everyday vegetables and expanded its value offering, as the retailer responds to growing demand from families seeking healthier food at affordable prices. The move sees prices cut on 19 vegetable staples, while 22 everyday lines have been added to its value ranges in a bid to attract more regular weekly shoppers. Key products affected include household staples such as mushrooms, carrots, leeks, cabbage, courgettes and Tende