Dave Thompson MSP

High Street chains urged to source Scottish produce

Dave Thompson, SNP MSP for Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch has today backed the Scottish Government’s calls for retailers to support local farmers and crofters during difficult economic times by sourcing Scottish products.

The Scottish Government’s Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Food and the Environment Richard Lochhead has already written to major high street coffee retailers urging them to commit to using Scottish milk and other produce as Scotland’s agricultural sector copes with volatile global markets.

Commenting, Mr Thompson said:

“With farmers and crofters here in Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch and across Scotland going through tough times as a result of poor weather conditions and low prices, it is incumbent on all of us to do what we can to support them – that’s why I’m calling on major retailers to commit to sourcing Scottish products, to support our farmers and crofters in their hour of need.

“Scotland’s food and drink sector enjoys an unparalleled reputation across the world – and it’s time that retailers here at home did their bit to ensure that this success filters down to primary producers here in Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch and helped to ensure a fairer deal for local farmers and crofters.

“There are already inspiring examples of retailers in Scotland committing to using local produce to support our farmers and crofters – and I hope that many more businesses in Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch will quickly follow suit.

Note:

Further details of the Scottish Government’s calls can be found here: http://news.scotland.gov.uk/News/Retailers-food-companies-should-support-Scottish-farmers-1d80.aspx