HIGH STREET CHAINS URGED TO SOURCE SCOTTISH PRODUCE
MSP Aileen McLeod is backing the Scottish Government’s calls for retailers to support local farmers 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.
Aileen said:
“With farmers here in Dumfries & Galloway 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 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 Dumfries & Galloway and help to ensure a fairer deal for local farmers.
“There are already inspiring examples of retailers in Scotland committing to using local produce to support our farmers – and I hope that many more businesses will follow suit.”
