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Lochhead promises partnership with farmers |
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Friday, 22 February 2008 |
Promising a continued partnership for success, Cabinet Secretary Richard Lochhead spoke for the first time to NFU Scotland’s Council today.
Lochhead promised to build on the strong relationship that the
Government has developed with the farming industry since taking office
to deliver to strong, sustainable rural economy. He also encouraged
farmers to increase their efforts to meet the demands of modern
consumers and the challenges of emerging global trends to deliver a
sustainable future.
He set out his vision of farming for the 21st century which includes
increasing agriculture's contribution to the Scottish economy to £1b by
2016; encouraging greater diversification into renewable projects,
organic farming and tree planting; bridging the gap between food
production and consumption; establishing a fair price for farmers; a
review of farming regulations; establishing Scottish control over all
animal health and welfare issues; and Common Agricultural Policy (CAP)
reform which recognises the unique nature of Scottish farming.
Lochhead told NFU Scotland that "farming is an integral part of our
vision for 21st century Scotland. Not only is it central to our rural
economy, it is part of who and what we are. It is part of Scotland's
soul.
"
"There is a huge opportunity ahead if our nation and industry respond
effectively to the challenges that face us in the modern world:
changing global trends, new consumer demands and, the greatest
challenge of all, climate change
"The Scottish Government will help farmers do that. We will stand with
them and fight their corner. We will support their demands for a fair
deal – in Scotland, in the UK and in Europe."
He went on to announce the Brussels had approved £1.6bn for a new
Scottish Rural Development Programme which will support innovation and
diversification.
"This cash, together with the Government's backing for farming and
farmers' commitment to change, will ensure that in the 21st century our
agricultural sector is the most dynamic in the world."
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