UK supermarkets predict shortage of lettuce, broccoli and citrus fruit

Unless the situation changes, France's ban on hauliers crossing the Channel will be felt in the run-up to Christmas

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Supermarkets and wholesalers are warning shoppers of shortages of lettuce, broccoli and citrus fruit around Christmas after France banned hauliers carrying freight across the Channel in an effort to contain the spread of the new coronavirus strain.

The environment secretary, George Eustice, held an emergency call with supermarket executives on Monday afternoon to discuss the situation as retailers expressed concerns that the lorry ban could combine with Brexit disruption to cause serious difficulties for shops.