Oral QuestionDepartment for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs

If she will make a statement on her departmental responsibilities.

Tabled: 12 March 2026Answered: 19 March 2026

Asked by

Aphra Brandreth

ConservativeChester South and Eddisbury

Answering Minister

the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs

Answer from Hansard

Dame Angela Eagle

We are well aware that events in the middle east are putting pressure on input prices. The hon. Lady mentions red diesel and fertiliser for the farming sector. I have talked to the chief executive officer of the Competition and Markets Authority. We are taking a close look at what is happening to ensure that there is no market abuse, and will keep a close eye on the situation as it develops. My right hon. Friend the Chancellor has already announced extra support for heating oil in rural communities. We keep a watching brief on this important matter.