NFUS leader tells members that change is on the way

NFU Scotland president Andrew McCornick told members at the union’s autumn conference that the only certainty about Brexit was that change was coming for the sector.

He said while there was frustration over the lack of political progress on Brexit negotiations, the union had resolutely pursued its three priorities of securing friction free trade, access to skilled and competent labour, and a future support package for Scotland that was adequately funded and fairly allocated.

“Withdrawal from the EU means withdrawal from the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) and for our members that means change,” said Mr McCornick.

“Post-Brexit and post-CAP, Scottish agriculture has an opportunity to move away from area-based schemes that have incentivised inertia.

“That will need the devolved delivery of schemes and measures that are fit for Scotland’s needs underpinned by a recast support package that is adequately funded, ring-fenced and properly targeted.”

He said “friction-free trade” was needed to ensure protection for Scottish produce.

“For us, a single market and customs union, at least through transition, is a ‘must’. At the same time, future trade deals must not suck in cheaper food produced to poorer standards,” added Mr McCornick.

“Trade and labour issues are just as critical to the future wellbeing of both primary production and food and drink manufacturing.

“With a target turnover of £30 billion by 2030, food and drink will continue to generate greater returns for Scotland than areas like oil and gas but that needs access to skilled and competent labour – both seasonal and permanent – to make it work.”

Mr McCornick said the union would continue to engage with members over Brexit, both at a series of Brexit roadshow events and also at a debate and discussion at AgriScot on November 15.

Regional events being organised by the union include a meeting for the east central region on Wednesday, at the Huntingtower Hotel, Perth, at 7.30pm.