General election: Better deal for Scottish farming needed, NFU Scotland says

According to the manifesto, a 'good deal' for Scottish farming will depend on free trade agreements with the EU (Photo: National Trust)
According to the manifesto, a 'good deal' for Scottish farming will depend on free trade agreements with the EU (Photo: National Trust)

Ahead of the 'Brexit election' next month, NFU Scotland has used its manifesto to call for the next UK government to deliver a good deal for Scotland's agriculture.

According to their manifesto, a 'good deal' for Scottish farming will depend on free trade agreements with the EU and a sensible approach to controlled immigration.

Speaking after the launch, NFU Scotland president Andrew McCornick said they will hold the government to their commitment to get a 'good deal' for all parts of the UK.

"NFU Scotland is under no illusion about the challenges presented by the negotiations to leave the EU, undoing more than 40 years of the Common Agricultural Policy in the process.

"Brexit will undoubtedly present us with opportunities and the chance to look forward but that needs UK negotiators to secure a good deal in the months ahead.

"Scottish agriculture remains very vulnerable to fluctuations and shocks, threatening profitability and the ability to invest in the sector."

Falling income

The latest figures show that Scottish farm incomes have fallen by a devastating 75 per cent over five years.

The union said the need to secure new trade deals, policies and support arrangements was critical.

In Scotland alone, farming generates an annual turnover of £3 billion and is the driving force behind a food and drink sector turning over more than £14 billion.

"The new UK Government must recognise the diversity and unique challenges that Scottish agriculture faces as it takes forward its vision for the United Kingdom," said Mr McCornick.

Numerous other rural organisations have released their manifestos, including the NFU, NFU Cymru, the CLA, the Soil Association, the Tenant Farmers' Association, the Campaign to Protect Rural England, the British Veterinary Association, the Farmers' Union of Wales and the Countryside Alliance.