NFU Scotland has held its first meeting with Scotland’s newly appointed Secretary of State, Alistair Carmichael.

Mr Carmichael, the MP for Orkney and Shetland, took up the post of Scottish Secretary of State on Monday (7 November) following a reshuffle that saw him replace Borders MP Michael Moore.

The Union had requested an early meeting with Mr Carmichael ahead of the UK making important decisions on the delivery of Common Agricultural Policy reforms. 

NFU Scotland President, Nigel Miller said:

“Work on delivering the new CAP is still incomplete and decisions yet to be made will have a fundamental part to play in how rules will impact on Scottish agriculture.

“This was a very useful first meeting with Mr Carmichael that left us in no doubt of his clear intent on trying to secure a good deal for Scottish agriculture and a prosperous future for Scottish farmers.

“We hope that this meeting is the start of a very constructive relationship.  We hope to get Mr Carmichael out on farm in the near future for a close up view of the key issues for Scottish farming at this time.”

Secretary of State for Scotland, Alistair Carmichael MP said:
 
“As a farmers’ son, married to a vet and living in Orkney, I have never been in any doubt about the importance of farming to Scotland’s rural communities.
 
“I was delighted to meet with Nigel Miller yesterday, and I am determined to ensure that the relationship between the NFUS and the Scotland Office will continue to be strong and constructive.
 
“I look forward to close contact with the NFUS over the coming months.” 

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Contact Bob Carruth on 0131 472 4006