Minister questioned on future of Scottish agriculture after Brexit

10 May 2019

In the final session of the Scottish Affairs Committee's inquiry into the future of Scottish agriculture, Fergus Ewing MSP, Cabinet Secretary for the Rural Economy gives evidence.

A post-Brexit framework

The Scottish Affairs Committee has been examining the implications of leaving the European Union for Scottish agriculture. After Brexit, the UK will cease to be bound by the rules of the Common Agricultural Policy, and a new UK wide framework agreement will need to be created to manage agricultural policy in the UK and the devolved nations.

The Committee has been exploring issues such as the consequences of agriculture powers returning from Brussels, the implications of the Agriculture Bill not giving powers to the Scottish government, shortages of agricultural workers in Scotland and the role science and technology can play in making farms more innovative.

Scope of the session

Following evidence sessions with academics with expertise in agriculture, farmers and growers, environmental groups and the operators of the government's agricultural seasonal workers pilot scheme, the Committee will now question the Scottish minister on the evidence that has been gathered. Topics likely to be covered include future financial support for Scottish farmers and crofters, the relationship between UK and Scottish agricultural policy after Brexit and how innovative technology can be used to accelerate the future potential of Scottish agriculture.

Witnesses

Tuesday 14 May 2019, Grimond Room, Portcullis House

At 1.30pm:

Fergus Ewing MSP, Cabinet Secretary for the Rural Economy
David Barnes, National Adviser on Agriculture Policy
Andrew Watson, Deputy Director for Agricultural Policy Implementation

Further information

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