British minister mocked for suggesting citizens eat radishes due to vegetable shortage

London [UK], February 24: The British Minister of the Environment, Therese Coffey, was ridiculed today because she suggested citizens to eat radishes because of the shortage of fruits and vegetables, especially tomatoes and peppers.
Due to the shortage, stores have limited the quantities of fruit and vegetables they sell to customers individually, so that there is enough for everyone.
That shortage is a consequence of bad weather in southern Europe and northern Africa, where fruit and vegetables are imported, the British Federation of Retailers said.
Teresa Coffey told parliament today that the shortage could last two to four weeks.
"Supermarkets are still importing too much produce... In fact, we should be eating more seasonal produce and supporting our British farmers," responded Selaine Saxby, MP of the British ruling Conservative Party.
"It is important that we nurture the specialties we have in this country," the minister replied and added that many people should "eat radishes instead of thinking about lettuce, tomatoes or similar things."
Her statement drew criticism, with an unnamed British government spokesman standing by her, saying she wanted to highlight domestic products.
"Ultimately, it is up to individuals to decide what food they want to buy," the spokesman added, stressing that the shortage is not a consequence of Great Britain's withdrawal from the European Union (Brexit).
Source: Beta News Agency