314: FDF Chief Exec: 'New PM needs a plan to help food industry'

<div>"I find it interesting how poorly understood the food system is by politicians in the UK," says Karen Betts, Chief Executive of the <a href="https://www.fdf.org.uk/">Food and Drink Federation</a> (FDF).<br> <br> "Food manufacturing is something we need to educate them on better. We're often hidden away and out of view, but what goes on in our industry is absolutely vital."<br> <br> Karen took on the role at the FDF in December 2021 and what a time to do it. Since her appointment, the food industry has faced enormous challenges, including <a href="https://foodmatterslive.com/podcast/rising-inflation-what-will-it-mean-for-the-food-industry-food-podcasts/">inflation</a>, a fuel crisis, and the global effects of <a href="https://foodmatterslive.com/article/russia-ukraine-conflict-spiking-prices-and-the-threat-to-global-food-security/">the war in Ukraine</a>, not to mention the fallout from the Coronavirus pandemic.<br> <br> But she is well-placed to face those challenges, with a CV that is as intriguing as it is impressive. <br> <br> She is a former lawyer and has had posts including: ambassador to Morocco, positions in the Cabinet Office and the Joint Intelligence Committee, and senior jobs in industry, recently as Chief Executive of the Scotch Whisky Association.<br> <br> So what is her vision for the FDF? What are her priorities amongst a plethora of challenges for the industry? And how will she go about affecting the change she believes is needed?<br> <br> Karen tells the Food Matters Live podcast she wants to work with the UK's new prime minister to tackle the biggest issues.<br> <br> On inflation and energy prices, she says: "It would be really good to see a new prime minister really grip the economic issues and come up with a coherent and sensible plan. <br> <br> "The country and industry needs to have a clearer idea from government about how they think we can all collectively best cope. Businesses are doing everything they can now. <br> <br> "But we want to put businesses in a strong position where they