Tag Archives: Scotland

Ayrshire early potatoes could get PGI status

Albert Bartlett’s Scotty Brand is hoping to register ‘Ayrshire Early New Potatoes’ and ‘Ayrshire Earlies’ as a PGI under the European Union’s protected food name scheme.

A consultation is currently underway on the proposals, which coincide with the start of the Scottish early potato season. The first crops were delivered to the Morrisons’ supermarket in Ayr by Drew Young of Girvan Early Growers last week.

Michael Jarvis, of Scotty Brand, said: “Ayrshire potatoes are well on the way to achieving PGI status, which will confirm the unique quality of Ayrshire new potatoes as a result of where they are grown and the skill of the farmers.

“This drive will hopefully widen the distribution of Ayrshire New Potatoes even further, putting them firmly on the map in the UK market. If granted, the PGI status will help to preserve the national and regional food heritage of Ayrshire new potatoes, as well increasing awareness of the product both locally and throughout the EU.

“Scotty Brand Ayrshire new potatoes are harvested and packed locally and can be in store as soon as two days after lifting. Ayrshire is such an ideal location to grow early potatoes and you can really taste the fresh, earthy and sweet flavour of a true Scottish potato.”

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Scottish farm incomes halve

The incomes of commercial farms in Scotland are estimated to have halved over the four years to 2014. The latest reduction in farm business income, a measure of the return to unpaid labour on commercial farms, continues a four year decline in average income.

Estimates from the Scottish Government’s annual Farm Accounts Survey show that average farm business income fell by a quarter (£8,000) between 2013 and 2014, to £23,000; the lowest level of FBI since the measure was introduced. Income has been falling since a peak in 2010. Since then, commercial farms have seen a decrease of 55 per cent (£28,000) from an average of £51,000.

The report shows that one in five farming businesses north of the border made a loss. The Scottish Government also warned that the decline could have continued since the statistics were compiled. ‘While cattle prices remained steady in 2015, milk, potato, cereal and lamb prices fell,’ it added.

Photo Caption: The Scottish Government building

Photo Credit: Wikipedia

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Scottish growers worried about minimum wage

Growers in Scotland have warned that they will be unfairly penalised by plans to introduce a national living wage from April 2016.

According to the Scottish NFU (NFUS), growers may have to pay the national living wage to all staff, not just those over 25, as unlike England, Scotland retained the Scottish Agricultural Wages Board (SAWB). The union is now calling for the abolition of the SAWB.

NFU Scotland Chief Executive Scott Walker said, “Our members are committed to paying fair wages, but that has to be set against the unfairness of having a parallel employment system which only applies to Scottish agriculture. All this will have an impact on how competitive our growers are when it comes to putting fresh produce on the shelves.

“Growers in Scotland compete directly with farm businesses in England as well as the rest of Europe and wages can represent more than 40 per cent of the operating costs of such a business. The living wage will see any profit margin eliminated unless Scottish growers can recover the extra cost they face through the products they sell. If this doesn’t happen, then there will be less Scottish fruit and vegetables produced.”

In a comment aimed at retailers and other buyers he added; “The supply chain needs to recognise that what they pay for farm produce is the biggest determinant of what a business can afford to pay its staff and any sensible sourcing commitment from retailers needs to address this issue.”

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Scotland to ban GM crops

The Scottish Government has said that it will use a revised approach to the approval of genetically modified crops to request a ban in the country.

Rural Affairs Secretary Richard Lochhead said, “Scotland is known around the world for our beautiful natural environment – and banning growing genetically modified crops will protect and further enhance our clean, green status. There is no evidence of significant demand for GM products by Scottish consumers and I am concerned that allowing GM crops to be grown in Scotland would damage our clean and green brand, thereby gambling with the future of our £14 billion food and drink sector.”

However, the move has been condemned by farming leaders north of the border, particularly as it is at odds with Westminster’s attitude towards GM crops. Scott Walker, NFU Scotland Chief Executive said: “Other countries are embracing biotechnology where appropriate and we should be open to doing the same here in Scotland.

“Decisions should be taken on the individual merits of each variety, based on science and determined by whether the variety will deliver overall benefit. These crops could have a role in shaping sustainable agriculture at some point and at the same time protecting the environment which we all cherish in Scotland.

It is unclear whether the ban would apply to scientific and experimental research, but Scotland’s research establishments, including the James Hutton Institute and the Rowett Institute of Nutrition and Health have been at the forefront of researching the technology.

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Government funds Scottish berry research

Environment Secretary Elizabeth Truss used a visit to the Royal Highland Show last month to announce £1.3 million of funding from the Agri-Tech Catalyst programme for soft fruit projects led by the James Hutton Institute and James Hutton Limited.

The projects will use the latest advancements in understanding plant genetics to identify traits in raspberries that make them more resilient to pests and diseases, and in blueberries, traits that are better adapted to growing in Scotland’s cooler climate.

Secretary Elizabeth Truss said, “Scottish berries are up there with Scottish beef and lamb as a top quality UK product and this research will only enhance our reputation for producing good food both here and abroad. These projects demonstrate that by investing in the most cutting-edge techniques, and working collaboratively across the UK to raise standards, we can boost productivity and help more Scottish and UK producers to compete in international markets.”

Professor Bob Ferrier, Director of Research Impact at the James Hutton Institute, added, “This research is essential for the sustainability and commercial success of the Scottish and UK berry industry. Through the UK government’s investment in applying scientific innovation to address challenges faced across the agri-food supply chain, we can help producers grow more robust, disease resistant soft fruit varieties that are better suited to the UK market and climate.”

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New food policy manager for NFUS

The new Food Policy Manager for NFU Scotland has identified representation in the supply chain as one of his key roles as he builds relations with retailers, processors and consumers.

The role was created 18 months ago, but previous incumbent Kylie Barclay has moved on to pastures new. The new Food Policy Manager is 23-year-old John Armour, a farmer’s son from Kintyre, who commented, “It is a great privilege to be joining the Union. Growing up on a dairy farm has meant that I’ve always had a direct tie to NFU Scotland and I value the important work done to improve the lives and business opportunities available to Scottish farmers.

“My specific remit of representing our members’ interests in supply chain and food retail discussions is a thrilling prospect and I look forward to grappling with the key issues affecting the supply chain, and to working with everyone at NFUS to effect positive change to benefit the whole of the Scottish agricultural community.”

NFU Scotland Chief Executive Scott Walker commented: “John will continue to build on the success of his predecessor in being an active advocate for the farming industry in the supply chain. Ensuring that the country’s farmer’s voices are heard in a rapidly changing retailer environment is critical. It is important that we press for fair contracts and fair prices in the domestic market and look to maximise export market opportunities.”

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