US TRADE DEAL THREAT TO SCOTTISH FOOD AND DRINK

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Categories: News

Brendan O’Hara MP
“Real dangers of tory power grab revealed”:

Local Argyll and Bute MP, Brendan O’Hara has spoken of his deep concern for the Scottish food and drink industry following recent reports of a new trade deal with the US.

Reports have emerged showing US trade representative are keen to dispense with important food name protections, which protect the reputation and quality of Scottish products, including Scotch Whisky, Beef, Lamb, Dairy, Seafood and Stornoway Black Pudding.

Commenting, Mr O’Hara said: “These are very concerning times for all involved in the Scottish food and drink sector and we must do all that we can to protect our world-leading status.”

“Argyll and Bute has a rich and diverse food and drink industry and any attempt to remove food name protections would be devastating for so many industries, who have worked hard to build up their widely recognised products and reputation.”

“With the UK government desperate to secure a trade deal with the US, Scotland would be unable to prevent these protections on food standards from being undercut.”

“These new reports show exactly why it is vital for Scottish Industries that these powers remain wholly with the Scottish Parliament, to ensure that we can safeguard and protect our famous food and drink sector from a Tory power grab.

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