Farm minister Richard Lochhead has pledgedhis full commitment to helping Scots farmers implement the new Common Agricultural Policy (Cap).
Speaking a week after the independence referendum result and a day after revealing more details about the greening element of the Cap, Mr Lochhead last night said ensuring a “smooth implementation” of the Cap was his top priority.
“The people have spoken and I was delighted to see farmers playing their role in the debate over Scotland’s future,” said Mr Lochhead.
“The debate on our future now turns to securing the additional powers for Scotland as promised by the Westminster parties.
“None of this will distract me from my work on implementing the new Cap and ensuring that the EU and UK Government work together to ensure we get the detail right and that farmers are well placed to take the business decisions that need to be taken.”
He also confirmed his commitment to the ongoing Agricultural Holdings Legislation Review, which is considering among other things an Absolute Right to Buy for tenant farmers, and implementing the recommendations of Brian Pack’s red tape review.
“I am as committed as ever to working closely with the industry to address the challenges and opportunities before us,” added Mr Lochhead, who said a growing demand for Scots produce and international issues such as the Russian food import ban would also keep him busy.