NFU Scotland has called on world famous pop star Morrissey to give his backing to Scottish fruit and vegetable growers on his current tour of Scotland, which kicks off in Perth tonight (Wednesday, 15 June).
Morrissey, a prominent vegetarian has allegedly insisted that meat be removed from the menu at the venues on the Scottish leg of his tour, which takes in Perth, Inverness, Dunoon, Dunfermilne and Hawick in the coming days.
The Union has written to Morrissey and his record company asking him to use this decision in a positive way as it presents an opportunity to insist that all catering at the concerts be based on local or Scottish produce. That would give a significant boost to the many fruit and vegetable growers in the country.
NFU Scotland Communications Director Bob Carruth said:
“The decision to take meat off the menu at Perth has the potential to raise a few eyebrows and raise a few hackles amongst Scotland’s livestock farmers.
“However, we have taken the chance to point out to Morrissey and his team that there is still a great opportunity here to support the many fruit and vegetable growers in the country by insisting that local produce is being served up.
“Scotland may be most famous for its livestock but we produce a significant amount of fantastic fruit and veg - a growing success story that now delivers more than £240 million into our economy. It is a sector that was hit badly by recent storms that left it with a bill for damage that ran to more than £6million. As we enter peak soft fruit season, the backing of a top pop star would be a great pick me up for all growers.
“While the vast majority of consumers choose to include meat within their diet, those who opt to be vegetarian can find a widening range of Scottish produce on the shelf. The Union’s What’s On Your Plate campaign highlights the vast range of Scottish food available and our website calendar lets people know what foods are in season at any time of the year.”
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Contact Bob Carruth on 0131 472 4006