NFU Scotland launches manifesto for general election

Protecting domestic food production and delivering a bigger, multi-annual budget for farming are among the top priorities set out in a new manifesto from NFU Scotland, issued to all political parties this week ahead of an inevitable general election in 2024.

Speaking at the manifesto launch at West Craigie Farm on the outskirts of Edinburgh, NFUS president Martin Kennedy, said: “While most policy, legislation and regulation which relates to our interests in the future prosperity of Scottish agriculture is devolved to Holyrood, our attention and influence must also be fixed on Westminster.”

NFUS wants the total annual budget for UK agriculture to rise by £1bn, to at least £4.7bn, with a bigger slice allocated to Scotland.

See also: NFU seeks £4bn budget for post-BPS era

Other key priorities in the manifesto (PDF) include improving producer margins to increase food security, providing better access to skilled workers, and increased fiscal incentives.

The union is seeking clear manifesto commitments from all of the main Westminster parties and is asking all prospective UK parliamentary candidates for their support.

“We need commitments from the next UK government, and we need the full support of all prospective Scottish MPs, who should all be championing the interests of Scottish agriculture,” said Mr Kennedy.

“Covering over 74% of Scotland, active farming and crofting is key to helping to meet climate and biodiversity needs.

“High-quality agricultural production is vital to the wider food and drink industry – a sector that’s worth over £16bn to the Scottish economy, employs over 130,000 people and supports Scotland’s national reputation on the world stage.”

NFUS is holding an event for MPs at Westminster on Tuesday 16 April and will also be inviting all parties to a hustings event over the next few months to discuss and debate the contents of its manifesto.