WIREDGOV

Richard Lochhead calls on Liz Truss to take his concerns to the European Commission.

Scotland’s Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Food and the Environment Richard Lochhead has urged Liz Truss to work with the European Commission to deliver a more simplified CAP, as one of her first priorities in her reappointment as Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Mr Lochhead wrote to Ms Truss last week to congratulate her on retaining her post.

He said: “I’m looking forward to further developing my working relationship with Liz Truss in the coming months.

“The Scottish Government is taking forward the introduction of Scotland’s new rural development programme, which will provide crucial support for Scottish farming, food production, rural communities and the environment. The new scheme is worth £1.3 billion over the next six years.

“To further support our farmers, I would urge the Secretary of State to work with the European Commission to deliver a simplified CAP, in particular with a review of direct payments and Greening, in line with proposals to reduce red tape in the Brian Pack report.

“I have also stressed the importance I attach to ensuring the Scottish fishing industry is properly supported, including ensuring that seafood and fish levies are devolved to the Scottish Parliament and that Scotland’s fishing rights are safeguarded and fit for purpose – particularly looking ahead to the landing obligations under the reformed CFP.

“These are among some of the most pressing issues in my portfolio, but by no means the only issues I wish to discuss with the Secretary of State. That is why I have requested a meeting with Ms Truss to go into more detail.”