
NFU Scotland is to host a National Hustings event at Lanark Auction Mart on Tuesday 30 May at 7.30pm and members are encouraged to sign up. At the event, the main parties contesting Scottish General Election seats will outline their vision for Scottish agriculture, the Brexit negotiations and government over the next five years.
The Union believes this General Election is pivotal for Scottish farmers and crofters. Brexit presents a significant challenge to rural Scotland and the event will allow NFU Scotland members the opportunity to meet and question the parties on the negotiation of new trading arrangements, immigration rules, and a new system of agricultural policy and support as we leave the EU.
Representatives from the four main parties have been invited to attend, with Calum Kerr representing the SNP, and John Scott representing the Scottish Conservatives. The Scottish Labour spokeswoman will be Caitlin Stott and Mike Rumbles will represent the Scottish Liberal Democrats.
President Andrew McCornick, who will chair the debate, said: “NFU Scotland is under no illusion about the challenges presented by the negotiations to leave the EU, undoing more than 40 years of the Common Agricultural Policy in the process. Brexit will undoubtedly present us with opportunities and the chance to look forward but that needs UK negotiators to secure a good deal in the months ahead.
“Scottish farming generates an annual turnover of £3 billion and is the driving force behind a food and drink sector turning over more than £14 billion. The raw materials produced by the 65,000 people employed in Scottish farming are the cornerstone of a further 75,000 businesses and 360,000 jobs in the food and drink industry.
“This debate is a key opportunity for NFU Scotland members to hear how the parties will prioritise agriculture at this crunch-point in negotiations, and secure a good deal for the Scottish agricultural and food and drink industries.
“We look forward to hosting representatives from the main parties fighting the election and urge all members to attend.”
Notes to Editors
• NFU Scotland’s Hustings event will take place at Lanark Auction Mart, Muirglen, Hyndford Road, Lanark, ML11 9AX on Tuesday 30 May commencing at 7.30pm. If any member of the media would like to attend, please contact media@nfus.org.uk
• The event is open to all NFU Scotland members, who are invited to register at: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/nfu-scotland-general-election-2017-national-hustings-tickets-34745116579
• A copy of NFU Scotland’s manifesto is available for download at: https://www.nfus.org.uk/userfiles/images/Policy/Brexit/The%20Brexit%20Election%20-%20Full%20Document.pdf
For further details contact Bob Carruth on 0131 472 4006