SNP call to use Scots names on vegetable packaging attacked
PEOPLE MORE WORRIED ABOUT JOBS – MP
Published:
A NORTH-EAST MP has ridiculed a call by the SNP to try to force supermarkets to use Scots words for vegetables sold in this country.
Labour’s Anne Begg, who represents Aberdeen South, criticised Nationalist backbencher Bill Wilson, who wants potatoes rebranded tatties, turnip to neeps and tumshies, blackberries to brambles and spring onion to syboes.
The West of Scotland MSP, a long-time campaigner for Scots to be given equal status as a recognised language, raised the issue with Asda, Tesco and Sainsbury's.
He argued supermarkets were very quick to tell their customers they stocked Scottish produce so could see no reason why they should not use Scots words as well.
Mr Wilson admitted Tesco had refused to change the names of vegetables and the other supermarkets said the move would cause confusion.
Miss Begg said: “It is bizarre that the SNP do not have better things to do during a recession.
“It doesn't matter what things are called on the bag. What is inside is important.
“We are all proud of our Scots tongue, but people are worried about their jobs and homes, not the names their vegetables are sold under.
“We should be concerned about getting good-quality, local food at fair prices.”
A spokesman for Rural Affairs Secretary Richard Lochhead said: “The Scottish Government organised Scotland's first supermarket summit last September.
“Top retailers came together to discuss how they can work with government to achieve sustainable economic growth, promote fresh Scottish produce, reduce waste, and support the Year of Homecoming.
“The Scottish Government’s economic recovery programme is supporting some 15,000 jobs across Scotland.
“Whether in government or opposition, Labour don’t seem to be interested in any of these issues.”
