Meeting of the Parliament 18 March 2025
We are intent on working with our farmers and crofters on developing future policy. I understand that some people would like us to go further and faster, but we are only in the position that we are in because we are trying to get things right. In working with our key partners, we are making good progress. It is certainly a lot better than the travesties that are emerging down south.
Food resilience and food security are not something that we can achieve alone. In June 2024, I hosted an international food summit, gathering representatives from key international organisations and Scottish stakeholders to discuss the role of local solutions in addressing international problems. That summit was hugely successful, and those who attended were keen to continue that engagement. To that end, later this year, we will host a conference to focus on Scotland’s research and evidence on food security and invite exchange to foster those relationships.
Scotland is eager to play its part and show leadership in international efforts to tackle issues that affect food systems. Given that we have limited control over those risks, it is more important than ever that we work with the sector and other Governments to ensure that, while the sector is supported to grow sustainably, we carefully consider our food security and, at a minimum, do not unintentionally reduce it. That must be recognised as a priority at all levels of Government, in order to get ahead of the curve and bake in the right choices.
If we do not do that, we could inadvertently reduce the availability, affordability, quality or stability of our national food supply. That is why, recently, I brought the issue to the Cabinet, so that it could consider how food security and food system resilience can be part of the agenda in every portfolio across the Scottish Government. That work is on-going.
Sometimes, however, the threats to industry come from closer to home. Recently, an application was lodged with the UK Government for the provision of geographical indication status for English whisky. That has caused the industry real concern over the watering down of the definition of single malt. Although geographical indications are a reserved area, they are a highly coveted signifier of quality and provenance.