Committees

Glasgow hosts discussion on fisheries, food and agriculture

10 September 2018

The Scottish Affairs Committee visits in Glasgow to hold an evidence session as part of their inquiry Scotland and Brexit: Trade and Foreign Investment.

In 2017, Scotland exported £6 billion in food and drink to nations outside the UK. Alcoholic drinks formed a significant part of the total, accounting for £4.36 billion, while fish and seafood exports were also significant at £944 million. The major market for Scottish food and drink exports is the EU (68%), however trade with non-EU nations such as China has grown steadily in recent years.

The session will examine the impact of competing Brexit scenarios on trade, in particular the effects of the implementation of the Chequers Plan or a 'no deal' scenario. It will also consider how trade with non-EU countries could be improved and how Scottish exports can be promoted in new markets. The session will also focus on the impact of post-Brexit fisheries policy particularly on access to waters with the EU.

Witnesses

Monday 10 September 2018, University of Strathclyde (Technology and Innovation Centre), Glasgow

From 10:00am – Food, Drink & Agriculture

  • Jonnie Hall, Director of Policy and Member Services, NFU Scotland
  • Sarah Baker, Strategic Insight Manager, Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board
  • Cat Hay, Policy Manager, Food and Drink Federation Scotland
  • James Withers, Chief Executive, Scotland Food & Drink

From 11:30am – Fisheries

  • Georgina Wright, Head of Sales, Scottish Salmon Producers
  • Andrew Charles, Chairman, Scottish Seafood Association
  • John Anderson, Chief Executive, Scottish Fishermen's Organisation

Chair's comments

Ahead of the session, Committee Chair Pete Wishart MP commented:

"We are delighted to be coming to Glasgow to hear from the broad range of producers that make up the agriculture, food and fisheries sectors in Scotland.

It is vital that we understand the impact of changes to trade on large and small producers, from those who work in the fields and on the seas, as well as the producers of world renowned Scottish food and drink.

We want to see how we can protect these thriving industries and enable them to continue being one of the nation's great success stories as they seek to expand into new markets across the globe."

Further information

Image: iStockphoto