September 19, 2011

Scottish livestock producers express increased confidence

Scotland's livestock producers are expressing more confidence, with a modest gain in the suckler beef herd and a degree of stabilisation in the sow herd, QMS said.

"Without question, the reduction in livestock numbers in recent years has been a real worry for us," said Chairman Jim McLaren at the launch of the organisation's annual review.

Chairman Jim McLaren said at the launch of the organisation's annual review that the reduction in livestock numbers in recent years has become a problem to them.

An increase in the company's levy rates after a nine-year freeze means the marketing budget is now US$3.9 million and QMS plans to build on its successful campaign of last autumn.

The organisation's income rose by 20% from US$9.2 million in 2010 to US$11.2 million in the year to 31 March 2011, mainly due to increased statutory red meat levy rates and increased grant income of US$348,632. QMS also secured almost US$1.6 million in funding for work on behalf of the industry.