SOUTH OF SCOTLAND MSP CALLS FOR REAL ACTION ON FOOD

12.00.00am GMT Tue 15th Jan 2008

Jim Hume, MSP for the South of Scotland and Scottish Environment spokesperson, has called on the Government to take real action to encourage the purchase and consumption of local Scottish produce following the launch of its national discussion about a strategy for food policy.

Jim Hume said:

\“I've campaigned on local food for months now so it's something that's particularly close to my heart especially as there's such a wealth of quality goods and produce in the South of Scotland.

This Government is well practiced at launching discussions and strategies, but not so adept at taking real action to make a difference. Ministers have claimed that supporting local food is a \“clear priority\”, but have presented us with little more than extended discussions.

\“I want the public sector to take the lead in buying healthy, local seasonal food. Public sector procurement could be reformed to encourage the purchase of local, healthy, high quality food, for our schools and hospitals and take into account new requirements to reduce food miles.

\“I want to see solid proposals like this incorporated into a strategy that can be implemented as soon as possible. }{\fs24\cf2\lang2057\langfe2057\langfenp2057\insrsid16198551

The MSP continued:-

\“It makes sense to buy local and eat local \endash it quote s good for our health and it quote s good for our farmers, rural areas and the environment. There is overwhelming cross-party and industry support for a local food policy. Why is the Minister dragging his heels over taking real action?\”

Notes:

“The Scottish Government is committed to supporting the local food industry and I have made this a clear priority since I came into office earlier this year.\”

Richard Lochhead, Scottish Government news release, 25/10/07