As protesting farmers continue to erect blockades and rally tractors through cities, The Scottish Farmer asked if there was a need for similar scenes in the UK:
Scottish Beef Association (SBA) chair, Paul Ross
“I think the general opinion in the UK is that what is happening in some parts of Europe is too extreme but we’re too scared to make a move.
“If we don’t get progress soon then more action will need to be taken as politicians are not keen to listen to farmers. The protests in Grantown-on-Spey show the frustration within our farmers and crofters and I wouldn’t be surprised if we see more here.”
Chair of NSA Scotland, Peter Myles
“What is happening on the continent is just a symptom of the feeling of distrust farmers have for politicians either side of the channel as can be seen from the recent protests. With the publication of the ‘delegated powers in the Agriculture and Rural Communities (Scotland) Bill at stage 1 last week our political masters will need to be aware, yes, very aware that food supplies could be interrupted here too.”
St Andrews beef and sheep farmer, George Milne
“I recognise French farmers have carried out a variety of protests in the past and for good reason. They are fed up with the simple and easy words received from their government regarding their concerns over higher input costs and a lack of protection against cheap imports. The feeling here in Scotland is much the same. Farmers have received a similar lack of commitment and guidance from our government over recent years.
“We have received no real support on our direction of travel for the future, no commitment to our overall support budget going forward, and a complete lack of respect and value for the importance of home-produced food. Our cabinet secretary Mairi Gougeon has made little in the way of positive announcements in favour of farming and food production since taking up her role and the Scottish Government does not appear to value what our farmers produce and the many environmental benefits that we deliver whilst doing so.
“Perhaps it is time to act in the way of protests to protect our industry and our future. Although here in Scotland this would be made difficult with the public perspective of farmers, we certainly would be unlikely to receive the support like French farmers.”
New entrant farmer Adam Wright from Newmill, Keith
“The protests are certainly picking up a lot of global attention through the media. However, I think the situation is getting out of hand, and don’t necessarily agree with the amount of damage being caused.
He highlights: “The extremities of blocking roads are a threat to emergency services, there has to be a bit of rational thinking.”
Beef and cereal farmer Billy Laird from Kirkcaldy, Fife
“I think it is great what they are doing, the NFU has been useless and needs to get on top of the matter.
“I propose that all Scottish farmers living near a main road campaign in way of a ‘go slow’ tractor drive for an hour each morning. A lot of farmers may be afraid to act but look at the industrial action carried out by rail strikes, doctors, and teachers.”
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