In the final session of the Scottish Affairs Committee’s inquiry
into the future of Scottish agriculture, MSP, Cabinet Secretary for the
Rural Economy and UK Secretary of State for Environment, Food and
Rural Affairs MP give evidence.
The Scottish Affairs Committee has been examining the
implications of leaving the European Union for Scottish
agriculture. After Brexit, the UK will cease to be bound by the
rules of the Common Agricultural Policy, and a new UK wide
framework agreement will need to be created to manage
agricultural policy in the UK and the devolved nations.
The Committee has been exploring issues such as the consequences
of agriculture powers returning from Brussels, the implications
of the Agriculture Bill not giving powers to the Scottish
government, shortages of agricultural workers in Scotland and the
role science and technology can play in making farms more
innovative.
Following evidence sessions with academics with expertise in
agriculture, farmers and growers, environmental groups and the
operators of the government’s agricultural seasonal workers pilot
scheme, the Committee will now question UK and Scottish ministers
on the evidence that has been gathered. Topics likely to be
covered include future financial support for Scottish farmers and
crofters, the relationship between UK and Scottish agricultural
policy after Brexit and how innovative technology can be used to
accelerate the future potential of Scottish agriculture.
Tuesday 14 May
13.30
Grimond Room
Witnesses
13:30pm – Scottish Government (via video-link)
-
MSP, Cabinet Secretary for
the Rural Economy
- David
Barnes, National Adviser on Agriculture Policy
- Andrew
Watson, Deputy Director for Agricultural Policy Implementation
14:30pm – UK Government
-
MP, Secretary of State for
Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
