Fears of Scottish farmers suffering from no-deal Brexit
Fergus Ewing voiced his concerns today of the impact of a no-deal Brexit on farmers.
Scotland’s farming future was debated earlier at the Science and Advice for Scottish Agriculture’s (SASA) base in Edinburgh by the Scottish rural economy secretary and Michael Gove.
MSP Ewing asked Gove to clarify what support Scottish farms will receive over the Brexit transition period.
He added: “Pledges were made by Michael Gove and others to match EU funding for farmers during the referendum campaign…no guarantees have been forthcoming on that since.”
The SNP member also argued that EU citizens are essential to Scotland’s agriculture.
Mr Ewing has made his position clear, arguing last Thursday that Westminster should be responsible for the welfare of Scottish farmers in the case of a no-deal Brexit.
He said: “Of course, we will absolutely continue to champion the case for farmers and if there are costs to farmers resultant from a no-deal then Mr Gove is responsible for them. “He has said so himself.”
One day later, Michael Gove promised to compensate farmers if the UK government is unable to reach a Brexit deal.
At the National Farmers Union of Scotland (NFU), the Tory MP said: “I’m confident we will reach a deal with the EU on Brexit but our contingency plans are well advanced in the event of a no-deal.
“All livestock sectors will be included in the proposed compensation scheme, including dairy, but the sheep-meat sector is the most vulnerable and will need to be protected.”
Speaking with our reporter Katy Johnston, Willie Harper, NFU Scotland Forth and Clyde Chairman, said that “you’ve got to be optimistic.”
