UK supply chain unprepared for major shocks such as war, report warns
A report by the National Preparedness Commission warns that the UK's supply chains are ill-prepared for major shocks like war. It highlights the need for better stockpiling of critical supplies, particularly in comparison to European nations. The report calls for a shift in government planning to address potential crises, including food and medicine shortages.
- ▪The UK is lagging behind European countries in stockpiling critical supplies such as medicines.
- ▪The government currently does not mandate stockpiling for pharmacies or have a strategic list for critical medicines.
- ▪Britain is one of the least self-sufficient countries in Europe regarding food supply, lacking a strategic food stockpile.
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Empty fruit and vegetable shelves at Asda in 2023 due to a combination of bad weather and transport problems in Africa and Europe. Photograph: Yui Mok/PAView image in fullscreenEmpty fruit and vegetable shelves at Asda in 2023 due to a combination of bad weather and transport problems in Africa and Europe. Photograph: Yui Mok/PADefence policyUK supply chain unprepared for major shocks such as war, report warnsResearch by National Preparedness Commission calls for ‘worst-case scenario’ planning by European statesBen Quinn Political CorrespondentSun 24 May 2026 06.00 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleBritain’s vital supply chains are unprepared for the prospect of a major shock such as war with Russia, and bold steps are needed to catch up with “worst-case scenario” planning by European…
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