Call to back food production

With the reform of the Common Agricultural Policy trundling forward, a number of Scottish agricultural lobby organisations have this week listed their priorities aimed at retaining the capacity to produce food while protecting the environment.

Top of the list for the National Sheep Association, the Institute of Auctioneers and Appraisers Scotland, the Scottish Association of Meat Wholesalers, the Scottish Beef Association and the National Farmers Union Scotland is a need to couple support to production as far as possible.

The lobbyists have pointed out that the European Commission will allow up to 10 per cent of the member states’ or regional budget to be utilised as coupled support for vulnerable sectors.

Taking up this option to target payments, they believe, would be crucial to Scotland’s wellbeing with its reliance on livestock production from the Less Favoured Areas.

They also want to ensure that future support goes to those actively involved in farming unlike the current situation where those who have retired from producing livestock or crops can still access support payments.