Farmers express disappointment with government's customs union statement

The Scottish farming industry has expressed its disappointment over the UK government's decision to rule out continued membership of the EU customs union.

NFU Scotland said the government has ruled membership out without setting out an alternative or recognising what this will mean for food and farming in the UK.

Continued membership of the customs union would allow the industry to keep frictionless free trade with Europe, while allowing access to important world markets.

Australia, New Zealand and the USA are all countries that the UK Government has indicated as post-Brexit target markets for free trade agreements.

However, NFU Scotland said UK farming must not be "sold out for an ideological view".

Commenting on the UK Government comment that it will not be ‘staying in’ or ‘joining’ a customs union, NFU Scotland Chief Executive Scott Walker said: “Trade with Europe is important to us, as are the trade agreements that Europe already has in place with countries around the world.

“While the statement wasn’t a surprise, it was an opportunity for the UK Government to take a more proactive approach in recognition of its ongoing consultation with industry – they have chosen not to do so.

“We remain adamant that any Brexit outcome that results in the UK importing cheaper food would be hugely damaging to the farming, food and drinks sectors of Scotland and the UK. Sucking in food imports also means exporting jobs and incomes in the domestic farming and food supply chain, as well as animal welfare and environmental responsibilities beyond our shores.

Mr Walker added: “Food production and consumption should never be based on price alone, but also provenance, quality and exacting standards.”