Dumfries & Galloway Regional Chair hosts visit from Anas Sarwar

NFU Scotland’s Regional Chair in Dumfries and Galloway, Colin Ferguson has hosted a visit from Anas Sarwar, Leader of the Scottish Labour Party on his family dairy farm at Knockann, Kirkinner near Newton Stewart.

This was a first farm visit for Mr Sarwar since being elected party leader and he was joined yesterday (27 July) by South of Scotland MSP Colin Smyth, Scottish Labour’s Spokesperson for Economic Development and Rural Affairs.

Discussion focussed on national farming policy, communities, employment and development of business opportunities and skills.  Colin welcomed the chance to discuss both regional and national issues whilst showing them around the farm business.

Speaking after the visit, Colin said: “After a long period of virtual political engagement throughout the pandemic, it was a pleasure to welcome Anas to the region and our farm as part of his Great Scottish Staycation Tour.  It was great to have Colin also visit, as both a regional MSP and Scottish Labour spokesperson for rural affairs.

“They were keen to listen and learn about what Scottish farming delivers for our economy and what our rural communities and businesses really need to prosper in Dumfries and Galloway.

“In this post-Brexit, post-CAP era, farm businesses in Dumfries and Galloway and across Scotland badly need policy direction so we can step up to the plate and tackle climate change and biodiversity loss as well as continue to produce top quality food.

“In the past few weeks and months, NFU Scotland has mapped out its vision for future agricultural support; Scottish Government’s own Farmer-Led Climate Change groups have reported and the Farming for 1.5°C inquiry has been published.  

“On our farm walk, I stressed that farmers have now voiced a clear and consistent message on how we will meet the challenges of reducing emissions and improving biodiversity whilst contributing to Scotland’s ambitious food and drink sector targets.  It is now up to Scottish Government, politicians and the civil service to take action and drive forward this matter as soon as the parliamentary summer recess ends.”  

Notes for editors

• A photograph of Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar and Colin Smyth MSP visiting Colin Ferguson’s family dairy farm at Knockann, near Newton Stewart yesterday (27 July) is attached.

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Contact Bob Carruth on 07788 927675