FOOD industry experts are coming to York on Thursday to take part in a 'Question Time' style debate on Yorkshire foods, in a new initiative at the York Festival of Food & Drink.

Food writer Sophie Grigson will be a guest on the panel, along with National Farmers' Union president Sir Ben Gill. BBC North Yorkshire's Elly Fiorentini will compere.

Debate organisers, the Countryside Agency, have called on people in York to turn up and to voice their concerns on issues such as GM crops and organic food.

Also on the panel will be Judy Bell, of Shepherd's Purse Dairy, local restaurateur Michael Hjort, Elaine Lemm, Yorkshire Life food editor, and representatives from the Regional Food Group and City of York Council.

Mr Hjort, secretary of the Hospitality Association, said: "The festival needed to develop a more hard-hitting agenda, rather than just being food demonstrations.

"I think people do feel that regional identity is under threat and that there is perhaps more to life than going to the supermarket and buying shrink-wrapped pork."

Among the issues that will be addressed at the debate are: Who is trying to promote regional foods? Why can't we find local produce more easily? Can regional foods revive the local economy?

Caroline Welbourn, of the Countryside Agency, said: "This is the first debate of its kind at the Festival of Food & Drink and highlights the need for us all to not just enjoy good food and drink, but to be aware how our purchasing decisions can impact on the local and rural economy.

"I'd encourage anyone with an interest in the future of food in the region to attend the debate and play their part in influencing some of the country's leading policy makers and industry figures."

Anyone who would like to ask a question is advised to table it in advance either by faxing it to: 01904 635115, or emailing: admin@ydha.org. Priority will be given to questions received in advance.

The debate is being held at York Guildhall tomorrow, at 10am, and is expected to last until 11.30am. Coffee will be served from 9.30am. Entry is free.

Updated: 08:35 Wednesday, September 17, 2003