UK could face food shortages in 'worst case' Iran war scenario

The UK could face some food shortages by the summer under a worst case scenario of the Middle East conflict drawn up by government officials.

Staple items such as chicken and pork could run low amid fears that a prolonged closure of the Strait of Hormuz could reduce domestic supplies of carbon dioxide, which is used in the slaughter of some animals and in food preservation.

A government source told the BBC it was planning for a worst case scenario, which would involve the continued closure of the strait and breakdowns in the domestic supply of carbon dioxide.

The source stressed the planning was not a prediction of what will happen, and did not suggest there would be a lack of food supplies.

The planning by government officials was first reported by the Times.

Petrol and diesel prices have soared since the US and Israel launched wide-ranging strikes on Iran on 28 February and Iran effectively shut the Strait of Hormuz - a crucial global waterway for oil and gas transport.

Iran's blockade has led to higher costs globally for fuel and fertiliser, both crucial elements of food production.

Earlier this week the International Monetary Fund warned that the war could plunge the global economy into recession, with the UK set to be the hardest hit of the world's advanced economies.

The National Farmers Union has said that the price of cucumbers and tomatoes could rise over the next six weeks, with the cost of other crops and milk increasing in the next three to six months.

US President Donald Trump has suggested talks aimed at ending the war in Iran could resume this week, after negotiations collapsed at the weekend, prompting the US to blockade Iranian ports.

On Wednesday Chancellor Rachel Reeves said the US made a "mistake" by ending diplomatic negotiations with Iran and entering into military conflict.