McArthur backs #FoodNeedsAFarmer Rally

Orkney's MSP, Liam McArthur, has voiced his support for NFU Scotland's #FoodNeedsAFarmer campaign after attending a rally outside the Scottish Parliament today (Wednesday) which sought to highlight the need for farmers, crofters and food producers to be at the heart of Scotland's new agricultural policy.

Mr McArthur and MSPs from all parties joined farmers and crofters from across Scotland, including Orkney, to hear their concerns and aspirations ahead of a forthcoming Agriculture Bill which is expected to deliver a new framework for the industry.

NFU Scotland have repeatedly criticised Scottish Ministers for an "information vacuum" over future policy and support schemes. They have also appealed for urgent action to address the "worsening food security crisis" with proper recognition of food production in Scotland.

Orkney's MSP raised concerns earlier this year about the impact of increased input costs on food security and the need for greater certainty around future regulation and funding support. He has also called on the Rural Affairs Secretary to rethink Orkney's exclusion from the current ‘road trip’ of consultation meetings on the Agriculture Bill, given the importance of the sector in Orkney to Scotland as a whole.

Commenting, Mr McArthur said:

"While the Agriculture Bill is an important step in delivering a post-Brexit framework, critical detail over what future agricultural policy and support will actually look like remains thin on the ground.

"Despite repeated warnings from the sector over an 'information vacuum', Scottish Ministers have given little away. This is creating uncertainty and preventing farmers and crofters from planning ahead.

"The situation is made worse as input costs soar and confidence plummets. We are already seeing the consequences of that loss of confidence locally with a worrying reduction in suckler cow numbers. Retaining the critical mass of Orkney’s beef herd is crucial, not just for farm businesses but for our wider island community.  

"Orkney’s agricultural sector has built an enviable reputation for quality. It has a workforce committed to playing its part in delivering food security while also addressing the climate and biodiversity emergencies. To do this, however, our farmers need to be supported by Scottish Government.

"Early payment of subsidies to some farmers is only a sticking plaster when what is required is urgent, long-term direction from Ministers.  The sector could also do without the uncertainty created by a further Scottish Government review into livestock transport arrangements on Northern Isles ferry routes.

"It was good to see Orkney well-represented at the rally outside Holyrood, driving home the message that food needs a farmer. Scottish Ministers need to heed this message and act."