The UK Government is not seeking consent from the
Scottish Parliament on this Bill as we are not
legislating in areas of devolved competence in
Scotland.
No powers that could constrain devolved policy choices
in Scotland are being introduced.
For example, there is nothing in the Agriculture Bill
which will stop existing Scottish Government policies –
including the Voluntary Coupled Support and Less
Favoured Area Support Scheme. They will still be
possible under both retained EU law and the Agriculture
Bill.
Contrary to claims, Scottish farmers will continue to
receive the same level of funding as they currently do
until the end of this Parliament in 2022
As we leave the EU, it is our intention that each
administration can independently design policies that
support their farming sectors and enhance their
environment.
While these policies are still under development, the
Agriculture Bill demonstrates a continued commitment by
the UK Government to World Trade Organization (WTO)
obligations on domestic support.
The Scottish Government has claimed powers enabling us
to comply with our WTO obligations should be exercised
jointly; however, the Scottish Parliament does not have
the legal competence to act in this area.
While this is a reserved matter, the UK Government will
work closely with the devolved administrations on this
given their interest. Just as we did ahead of the
Agriculture Bill’s introduction.
We have offered to extend powers in the Agriculture
Bill to the devolved administrations which would enable
them to create their own farming support systems to
replace the CAP.
Wales and Northern Ireland have accepted the offer.
The Scottish Government has chosen not to take any
powers in this Bill. Agriculture is devolved and that
is their choice. But our offer remains on the table.
We remain in discussions with the Welsh and Scottish
Governments regarding red meat levy funds and
legislative options.
We will continue to work with all parts of the UK to
put in place a wider common framework relating to
agriculture once we leave the EU.
Scottish Secretary said:
The UK Government has already agreed to commit the
same cash total in funds for farm support for
Scotland until the end of this Parliament.
This Bill ensures that new systems of farming support
can be put in place after 2020 in England and Wales.
Farmers in Scotland need the same reassurance - and
time is running out for the Scottish Government to
act.
It is simply not acceptable for Scottish farmers to
be kept in the dark about the future of agricultural
policy in Scotland.
