No farmers, no food: Rural Scotland calls for Reform

IT HAS BEEN SAID MANY TIMES: no farmers = no food.

This past weekend, 2-3 August, saw the Reform UK Scotland North East Regional Team on the ground at the annual Turriff Show, the second largest of its type in Scotland.

Last year the weather was horrendous with the second day being cancelled on safety grounds. This year, although damp, conditions were much more hospitable, if equally tiring.

Sunday is traditionally the more family-oriented day, while Monday is focused on the industry, the challenges it faces, and the commitment involved in showing prime livestock. It always lifts the spirits to see the next generation embrace rural life and agricultural traditions.
Our team had a very busy and successful event, many a conversation was had, and one thing became abundantly clear: people want change, and they want a general election.

Many new members were signed up from all walks of life. It is particularly encouraging to see the next generation of teenagers engaged, informed and ready to support Reform UK when they reach voting age.

Of course, the legacy parties were out in force, promising the earth while ignoring the damage their previous policies have done to the area. They really do suffer from chronic political amnesia.

Politicians need to wake up, cut out-of-touch keyboard quangos, and listen to those at the coalface

Be it the pursuit of net zero ideology, rewilding, the abandonment of the pig Industry, the desperate need to cull the badger population, the shortcomings of the Less Favoured Area Support Scheme (LFASS), or the banning of controlled burns in the uplands following devastating wildfires, the industry is struggling and crying out for help. Politicians need to wake up, cut out-of-touch keyboard quangos, and listen to those at the coalface.

We were present at the NFUS Q&A session on Monday, where our very own Jamie Langan MSP was on the panel. The overriding message from the farmers in the room was one of desperation – a desperate plea to be listened to, rather than bombarded with political word salad.

These farmers are the backbone of our food security. They need a level playing field and support that is inclusive, fit for purpose and encourages new entrants into the sector. The current level of support from the UK and Scottish Governments is falling well short. Reform is required; failure to act is not an option.

A big thank you to all who helped over the weekend and a special thank you to our MSPs and councillors who came along. We are already looking forward to next year’s programme of agricultural shows across the country.