NFU Scotland’s Brexit concerns have been thoroughly reinforced following a post-Brexit assessment conducted by independent levy group Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB).

The analysis looked at a variety of different sectors of UK agriculture which will be affected by leaving the EU and their findings were almost completely in line with the Union’s predictions.

A major issue identified by the report is the reliance of the industry on current European financial supports and that a reduction could be detrimental to Scottish farmers.

This is an issue which has been flagged by NFU Scotland for some time now as an area of concern going into Brexit negotiations and beyond.

NFU Scotland’s Director of Policy, Jonnie Hall said: “While the AHDB report sets out more extreme scenarios, this detailed analysis unequivocally justifies NFU Scotland’s Brexit priorities.

“With our food and drink sector valued at more than £14 billion, it is a bigger driver of Scotland’s economy than oil and gas. But with big ambitions to grow the industry to £30 billion by 2030, that means striking a bespoke Brexit deal that recognises the unique nature of our industry and gives confidence to Scotland’s farmers and crofters that production will be profitable in the future.

“For that to happen, Scottish and UK agricultural and food products must have frictionless access to existing and new export markets, and that the domestic market must not be exposed to cheaper imports that lack Scotland’s exemplary animal welfare and environmental standards.

“The report also underlines the Union’s calls for continuous access to a skilled and competent work force, within both the farming and food processing sectors.

“That would create the bedrock of a thriving farming, food and drinks sector for the post-Brexit era.”

Rates bills

The Union is advising members that they may be receiving, or have already received, sporting rates bills in the post and that they should read the entirety of the letter as many will be entitled to relief which can be applied for. An advice note will accompany the bill, which should answer any queries that members may have. If there are any further queries these should be directed at local valuation offices.

Mercosur deal

NFU Scotland has warned MEPs over the trade deal with South American trading block Mercosur (Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay) currently being negotiated. The EU is currently considering allowing as much as 70,000 to 90,000 tonnes of beef per year to freely enter the European market through the deal which would cause a serious risk to Scotland’s high quality beef industry.

Grain dryers

Following on from an Ofcom consultation on Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI), NFUS has strongly defended the right of on-farm grain dryers to remain part of the scheme. RHI was introduced to encourage farmers with a need for grain dryers to install eco-friendly biomass or wood-fired units and generate substantial environmental benefits over old fuel-burning models which many farmers have already done.

Deadlines

A reminder to all farmers and crofters to respond to the BPS and Greening Loan Scheme offers ahead of the 20 October deadline. Letters were issued in September and offer applicants up to 90% of their anticipated basic support through a loan. Over 10,000 out of 16,000 farmers offered have already applied but the rest may need a reminder to have it competed by Friday.