NFU Scotland puts plans in place to engage with new UK Government and newly elected Scottish MPs
The General Election has brought a significant change to the political landscape in Scotland and the UK and, as the leading organisations for Scottish farmers and crofters, NFU Scotland will now begin work with the new UK Government.
The election of a Labour Government at Westminster, with a very significant majority, will see NFU Scotland fully engage with a strong cohort of Scottish Labour MPs to ensure that Scotland’s agriculture and food and drinks sectors are at the forefront of Scotland’s and the UK’s future prosperity.
- Next week, NFU Scotland will write to all 57 Scottish MPs highlighting its key asks, as mapped out in its manifesto, to deliver a profitable and sustainable future for Scotland’s farmers and crofters and at a local level, MPs will be encouraged to visit a local farm or local agricultural show over the summer parliamentary recess.
- Once the new Cabinet is formed, NFU Scotland will be writing to key Ministers including the Scotland Office, Treasury and the Department of Food and Rural Affairs.
- Once key Westminster committees are confirmed, the Union will also engage with new committee chairs and Scottish committee members.
- NFU Scotland officeholders are planning to be in Westminster on the week commencing Monday 15 July and will be arranging meetings with new or re-elected MPs. State opening of parliament is scheduled for Wednesday 17 July.
Commenting after a dramatic night in UK politics, NFU Scotland President Martin Kennedy said: “NFU Scotland has always worked constructively with whoever is in Government in the best interests of Scottish farming and crofting.
“Successful farming and food sectors are at the very heart of the Scottish rural economy. Not only do they put local, nutritious and sustainable food and drink on the table in times when food security is far from guaranteed, but these sectors deliver all the socio-economic and environmental benefits sought today. But future agricultural and rural funding is key – an element that was not included in the Labour party manifesto for this election.
“An immediate priority is securing a commitment from the new UK Government on an increased, ring-fenced and multi-annual budget for farm support across the UK. That will enable farmers and crofters to invest, plan better and deliver the required outcomes that will be in the best interests of Scotland and the UK.” Ends
Notes to editors
- A copy of NFU Scotland’s Manifesto is available at: https://www.nfus.org.uk/policy/parliamentary/general-election-2024.aspx
- In its manifesto, NFU Scotland calls on the new UK Government to:
- Deliver increased, ring-fenced and multi-annual funding.
- Improve producer margins to increase food security.
- Provide better access to skilled workers.
- Protect domestic food production in future trade deals.
- Increase fiscal incentives.
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Contact Bob Carruth on 0131 472 4006