Swinney reaffirms support for farming amid ‘significant change’ in sector

John Swinney has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to sustainable food production amid “significant change” in the farming sector, ahead of a visit to the Royal Highland Show.

The First Minister is due to attend the annual showcase of food, farming and rural life on Thursday, where he is expected to meet groups representing various rural aspects of Scotland.

Speaking ahead of the visit, Mr Swinney said it was his government’s ambition to be a “global leader” in sustainable agriculture, which he said would be achieved by working in partnership with the sector to transform support for farmers and crofters.

He also said there was a “stark contrast” between Scotland’s commitment to farming, which he said amounted to £600 million and included “direct support”, with the approach of the UK Government.

Mr Swinney said: “Our ambition is for Scotland to be a global leader in sustainable and regenerative agriculture. To do that we are working in partnership with the sector to transform the support we give to our farmers and crofters.

“I want to clearly repeat our commitment to sustainable food production, with more than £600 million annually, including maintaining direct support – in stark contrast to the UK Government approach.

“Since I was here last year, our farming sector and rural communities have seen significant change with the imposition of inheritance tax changes in agriculture and an incredibly challenging settlement for Scotland over the next three to four years from the recent UK spending review.

“Here in Scotland, we are committed to maintaining reformed direct payments, supporting sustainable food production and providing vital stability to our rural communities.”

The Royal Highland Show takes place at the Royal Highland Centre in Ingliston, Edinburgh, from Thursday to Sunday.