DEFRA withdraws £8.1 million in support of Scottish farmers

Speaking at a press conference in the House of Commons on Wednesday, SNP Leader and First Minister of Scotland, Alex Salmond MSP MP, has raised concerns that an offer of financial assistance from the UK Government to help farmers hit by animal movement restrictions as a result of the foot and mouth outbreak in England has failed to materialise.

Having obtained a document which shows that DEFRA had been due to announce £8.1million of support, Mr Salmond said:

"Scottish farming faces a crisis which requires immediate action and support.

"The Scottish Government has been working flat out to address this crisis, but the responsibility, and in financial terms the liability, for animal welfare is properly with DEFRA.

"Last Friday a draft copy of Hillary Benn's statement to the House of Commons stated: 'I have agreed with the Chief Secretary to the Treasury that Scotland should receive £8.1million and Wales £6.5m to assist them in countering the impacts of foot and mouth on their livestock farmers.'

"However, on Monday, when Mr Benn made his statement, and reference to funds for the devolved administrations merely said: 'Because this outbreak has arisen from an unusual set of circumstances, I am announcing today a package of assistance for the English livestock sector, amounting to £12.5m. The devolved administrations are proposing to introduce their own schemes.' Any mention of compensation for Scottish or Welsh farmers had been dropped.

"Why, on Friday, when the election seemed certain to be announced, was anything possible, but by Monday, when the election had been ruled out, was the commitment expunged.

"What changed between Friday and Monday?

"Scottish farmers will be furious at this disgraceful and disturbing attempt by DEFRA to renege on their responsibilities. I have written to the Prime Minister demanding an explanation."