April 8, 2008

Scottish minister releases financial package for agricultural businesses
 

Richard Lochhead, the Scottish cabinet secretary for rural affairs, has announced a financial package of GBP 800 million (US$1.5 billion) to boost domestic agricultural businesses.

The program budget is open to tenders from interested parties who can provide a detailed business plan. The budget may also be able to help the Scottish pig industry, which according to the consensus of independent analysts, is one of the worst businesses Scottish farmers could be involved in, with producers losing at least GBP 20 (US$37.6) per slaughter pig.

Rising feed prices and the failure of major retailers to respond to a possible supply shortage are causing poor margins for the pig producers, and Richard Lochhead, the Scottish cabinet secretary for rural affairs, is in contact with retailers such as Asda to discuss a long-term sustainable approach for the supply chain. 

It is important to purchase local pork whenever possible in order to support the domestic pig industry, said Lochhead, who also urged the consumers to buy Scottish pork.

The program's key goals are to mitigate climate change, improve water quality and to promote a wealthier rural country, said Lochhead.