NFUS eyes top-level talks

With the reform of the common agricultural policy coming down the track, NFU Scotland said last night it would be seeking meetings as soon as possible with the newly-appointed UK ministers who would be heading the negotiations.

Owen Paterson, who was shadow minister of agriculture from October 2005 to November 2006, has taken over from Caroline Spelman as UK Environment Secretary.

Following the departure of Jim Paice as UK farming minister, David Heath, a Liberal Democrat, has taken on that post. In another move affecting the agricultural industry, Under-Secretary of State with responsibility for Consumer Affairs, Norman Lamb departs, with Scottish Lib Dem MP Jo Swinson taking over.

Commenting on the moves NFU Scotland chief executive Scott Walker said that Paterson’s appointment came at a crucial time in CAP negotiations, as did David Heath’s new post as agriculture Minister.

“We shall be seeking meetings with the new ministers as soon as possible to ensure that Scotland’s farming voice is heard loud and clear.”

ANDREW ARBUCKLE