Complacency will not cut it – Carmichael calls for urgency from Scotland Office on farmgate prices

Orkney and Shetland MP, Alistair Carmichael, has today warned against “complacency” from Scotland Office ministers on farmgate prices, in response to a DEFRA consultation on contractual relationships in the fresh produce industry. Speaking in Parliament this morning, Mr Carmichael noted urgent concerns from many dairy farmers about the future viability of their businesses.

Scotland Office minister John Lamont MP said:

“We want all farmers to get a fair price for their products and the government is committed to tackling contractual unfairness that exists in the agri-food supply chain. We will use the powers in the Agriculture Act 2020 whenever necessary. At the NFU conference the Prime Minister announced that the Farm to Food Summit would be an annual event. This will help strengthen the joint working by government and external partners to support a prosperous agri-food sector.”

Mr Carmichael asked:

“The minister should be aware that his colleagues in DEFRA have recently completed a consultation on contractual relationships in the fresh produce industry.

“At a time when 23% of dairy farmers doubt that they will continue in business into 2025, will he impress on his colleagues in DEFRA and the Department for Business and Trade that action now in relation to that consultation is urgent?”

Mr Lamont replied:

“I completely understand the invaluable work that farmers and crofters do to put food on our tables across the United Kingdom. This government will continue to support agriculture and food production. Scotland Office minister routinely attend meetings with DEFRA along with representatives from the devolved administration. This group oversees our various price, supply and trade effects on markets and the government will continue to take whatever action is necessary to support this sector.”

Reacting after the exchange, Mr Carmichael said:

“There was very little in the minister’s reply that suggested he grasps the urgency of the situation facing farmers and crofters. Complacency will not cut it.

“Much of farming policy is devolved but budgets depend significantly on UK Treasury decisions, making this an area where Scotland Office work can really make a difference. Farmers and crofters deserve ministers who want a constructive relationship between our governments – but that will not happen with the SNP in place in Holyrood or the Tories in place in Westminster.”