The global population is growing and the challenge of providing sustainable food security is looming larger than ever. Here in the UK we have a rich history of agricultural innovation, and I believe it is time to use our strength in this field to our advantage and to the advantage of emerging nations by promoting knowledge and product exchange. But sustainable agriculture can only be delivered after thorough and targeted research in this sector, which is why I highlighted the importance of R&D to sustainable agricultural innovation at yesterday’s Common Agricultural Policy debate. We need a clear agricultural strategy that encourages private investment so that both the UK and developing nations can reap the rewards of our world-class agriculture and food research sectors, and I will continue my work alongside BIS to help develop an Agri-tech Strategy for the UK that does just that.