Moray MP Douglas Ross has welcomed the publication of the Scottish Conservatives’ new farming policy which concentrates on the unique and challenging circumstances faced by the industry and focuses on issues such as productivity, regional differentiation, environmental protection, research, education and providing worthwhile careers for those coming into farming.
Douglas said: “I very much welcome this publication which really focuses on the issues that matter to farmers and I’m sure it will be welcomed in Moray where the agricultural sector remains a key industry.
“It is absolutely vital that policies are tailored to the needs of Scottish agriculture and the challenges faced by farmers throughout Scotland using the uniqueness as a building block to future success.
“During the many visits I have done in my time as MP to farms in Moray I have heard time and again about how more, easy to access support is needed. This policy does just that and it is a far cry from the Common Agricultural Policy that did not appreciate or deal with many of the issues affecting farmers in our area.
“Recognising the UK as Scotland’s largest market is at the heart of this policy, but it also encompasses the uniqueness of Scottish farmers and seeks to promote and recognise this.
“I am delighted to see the Scottish Conservatives are thinking ahead about how to grow farming in Scotland, by seeking to help people coming into farming and also to direct young people at school who want to come into the industry. This is something I did myself after leaving Forres Academy to study agriculture at college and then work on farms here in Moray.
“While the SNP consistently fail our farmers, this new approach will provide real help when it’s needed. Farming and agriculture is a key industry in Moray and Scotland and deserves a proper support network. There are serious issues that must be addressed, and this policy paper is a welcome start.”
