Scotland’s First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon, has promised the country’s farmers that she will “fight” for the best possible deal for the industry at home and in Europe in the wake of Brexit.
“Brexit presents the biggest challenge to farming in Scotland in our generation,” the First Minister told delegates at this morning’s annual meeting of NFU Scotland.
“Agriculture is a more important part of Scotland’s economy than the UK because of our landscape and climate. So it’s important for the agriculture sector that Scotland has a strong say in the negotiations with the EU.
“It’s vital to ensuring that the settlement which is reached meets your needs and the Scottish Government will work with the industry to make the sector as sustainable and efficient as possible.”
Ms Sturgeon also announced £16,000 of targeted support to help grow new markets for Scottish red meat, primarily designed to fund promotional efforts at trade fairs later this year in Asia and North America.
“It’s important that we look to the future and continue expanding the market for our quality produce,” she said. “That’s why we will support additional work this year to promote our quality meat sector. It will also help send the message that Scotland is open for business.”
Headline image shows the First Minister with Quality Meat Scotland’s Uel Morton during a recent charity event