Food and drink supply chains workers are “hidden heroes” of COVID-19 pandemic, notes UK minister

15 Jan 2021 --- UK Environment Secretary George Eustice has praised the efforts of everyone working in the country’s food and drink supply chains. Describing them as the “hidden heroes” of the pandemic, his statement pays tribute to the workforce which is helping to feed the nation throughout COVID-19.

The Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs George Eustice has written a letter expressing the country’s gratitude and honoring the continued work “from farm to fork.” 

Maskless shoppers reminded of the rules
He also gives a nod to recent calls from some retailers, including Sainsbury’s and Morrisons, that maskless shoppers will not be allowed in store. Tesco and Waitrose have also said they employ marshals or security on the door to ensure shoppers are compliant with all safety regulations. 

Waitrose and M&S say that shoppers will not be allowed in the store without wearing a facemask, and they are actively reminding all customers to do so. 

The renewed calls for social distancing and wearing face masks came following complaints from workers and customers that many consumers were ignoring rules that put people at risk. 

“There are some who are not following the rules in the way that they should be, despite the risk posed by this virus. This is entirely unacceptable, and I understand the concerns about this,” says Eustice. 

“When you go into the workplace, you have the right to feel safe. Everyone has a role to play to help limit the spread of the virus and protect one another, and the Government will continue to make this clear to the public,” he says.

“Food businesses have gone to extraordinary lengths to ensure workplaces are as Covid secure and as safe as possible, from managing capacity in shops to encouraging customers to comply with regulations and guidance to keep us all safe. In the last few days, supermarkets have stepped up again, building on previous work, to further tighten their measures.”

By Gaynor Selby