Government must allow farmers to flourish - NFUS

In its ‘Programme for Government’ wish list, it says it is ‘crucial’ the next UK Government recognises what the farming industry is already doing to secure food supplies, manage the environment and landscapes and strengthen the rural economy.

This is being done despite economic pressures in the supply chain, a ‘burgeoning’ regulatory environment and the impact on the ground of climate change.

“Ideally, Scottish farmers require an operating environment within which they can secure sufficient returns from the marketplace without requiring a separate system of public expenditure to remain viable.

“However, in an environment of ongoing market failure, the right system of farm support remains critical.”

It says the ‘non-market’ goods delivered by farming, particularly high animal welfare, food security and preservation of the environment, are underpinned by a system of direct farm support. But direct payments must remain distinct from agri-environment and wider rural development payments and should focus on productive agriculture.

In its Programme the union welcomes the fact that all major parties have accepted a Competition Commission recommendation for a supermarket ombudsman and calls for the momentum behind its creation not to be lost.

“While there are some good relationships between supermarkets and suppliers, there is also clear evidence that the dominance of the major supermarkets can lead to an abuse of power, to the detriment of direct suppliers, farmers and, ultimately, consumers.

“This has already resulted in damage to almost all food sectors, some of it potentially irreparable.”

Pointing out that total agricultural emissions in Scotland have already dropped by 17 per cent since 1990, the union urges politicians to ensure climate change policies are properly integrated to take account of all aspects of land use, and sustainable production and consumption.

In addition NFUS has also called for other administrative anomalies, particularly the ‘unacceptable’ situation whereby animal health and welfare policy is devolved to Scotland, but the budget remains with Defra, to be resolved as soon as possible.

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