Industry is urged to sign up for online event on Monday 24 June to hear what candidates will deliver for Scottish agriculture if in Government.
Ahead of the General Election on 4 July, political parties will set out their vision for Scotland’s farmers and crofters at NFU Scotland’s online National Hustings on Monday 24 June from 7pm.
Three of the four main parties have confirmed their representatives for the online event. They are (in alphabetical order):
- Luke Graham – Former Conservative MP.
- Seamus Logan – SNP Councillor.
- Claire McLaren – Scottish Liberal Democrats spokesperson for Agriculture, Remote & Rural Communities and Councillor.
Those interested in hearing and questioning the major parties on how they will support farming, food and rural communities, including media, are invited to register at:
hustings
In its manifesto, launched in April, NFU Scotland outlined its five key asks of any future UK Government as the following:
- Deliver ring-fenced and multi-annual funding to agriculture and to increase the UK Government’s funding commitment to the sector by at least an additional £1 billion to more than £4.7 billion.
- Improve producer margins to increase food security.
- Commit to developing and delivering migration policy that works for the rural economy, food security and worker welfare.
- Protect domestic food production by classing agriculture as a sensitive sector in future trade deals.Increase investment, tax and fiscal incentives that support agriculture and food production.
Speaking at the Royal Highland Show, the annual four-day showcase for Scottish food and farming, President Martin Kennedy said: “We are only two weeks away from a General Election. It is a crucial time for farmers and crofters, and we are keen to work with all parties to deliver a sustainable and profitable future for agriculture.
“This online hustings will provide a unique opportunity for farmers and crofters from across Scotland to hear each party’s position in relation to agriculture and rural communities before the election in July.
“Our initial analysis of party manifestos shows us that several of our key asks have been included. A commitment to an extra £1 billion for UK agriculture is underlined by both the Liberal Democrats and Conservatives and the SNP highlights the need for more funding for farming. However, there is no mention of an agriculture budget in the Labour manifesto at all and we are disappointed at this.
“Other areas of interest across the manifestos include engagement in trade deals, increased local procurement and the importance of food security.
“This week, we will meet politicians from all parties across all four days of the Royal Highland Show and I look forward to hearing from their representatives on Monday evening on how their parties will help deliver a profitable and sustainable future for Scotland’s farmers and crofters.
Notes for Editors
- Members of the media can register for the online hustings event on Monday 24 June at 7pm are at: hustings NFU Scotland’s manifesto for the forthcoming General Election is available to read at: manifesto
Ends
Contact Bob Carruth on 0131 472 4006