NFUS looks to build on Defra dialogue with Ministerial meeting
NFU Scotland has welcomed a renewed commitment from Defra Secretary of State Caroline Spelman to show positive leadership on reform of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) when she spoke at a major agricultural conference in Oxford today (Thursday, 5 January).
Mrs Spelman also used her Oxford speech to outline the hugely positive contribution that the farming, science and food sectors are making to the nation’s plans for economic recovery and the importance of their future contribution.
Mrs Spelman is due to visit NFU Scotland’s President, Nigel Miller on farm in the Scottish Borders next week (Thursday, 12 January) as part of a wider visit to Scotland. The Union will use the visit to highlight the importance of securing a CAP Reform deal that supports and sustains farming and food production in Scotland from 2014 and beyond.
Speaking from the Oxford Farming Conference, NFU Scotland Vice President Allan Bowie said:
“Mrs Spelman has used the Oxford platform this year to highlight the hugely valuable impact that vibrant farming and food sectors are making to the UK’s economy now and her desire and commitment to see that continue in the future. That positive view must have an efficient, active producer base at its heart.
“Given the diversity of Scotland’s land types and farming systems, ongoing support at farm level through the CAP will remain central to the wellbeing of most of our farm businesses. That makes it crucial that the chain that links Scottish farmers to the decision-making process on CAP Reform in Europe – via Scottish Government and Defra – is strong.
“As the CAP Reform debate gathers momentum in 2012, it is already clear that there will be many challenges and difficult decisions along the way, but it is vital that both our politicians and NFUS are in there fighting for what’s important to Scottish agriculture. Mrs Spelman’s views on greening show there is already common ground.
“Many would worry that the Government’s recent use of its veto could isolate the UK in CAP negotiations but Mrs Spelman also spoke of collaborating and co-operating with other Member States to ensure that the European Commission understands what UK farmers need from CAP Reform. Her visit to Scotland next week gives us the opportunity to put down a marker on the Scottish industry’s specific requirements from CAP.”
Notes to Editors
- Defra Secretary of State Caroline Spelman will be visiting NFU Scotland President Nigel Miller at Stagehall Farm, Stow, Galashiels, TD1 2SS on Thursday, 12 January 2012.
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Contact Bob Carruth on 0131 472 4006