MPs join QMS to explore opportunities and challenges in red meat supply chain
Starting in late July, these visits across government and opposition parties have provided a valuable platform for discussing the industry’s contributions, challenges, and future opportunities.
Lucy Ozanne, Industry Strategy & Public Affairs Manager at QMS commented: "The red meat industry is a vital cornerstone of Scotland’s rural communities as a significant economic contributor and providing jobs across a variety of businesses. Our recent engagements have highlighted the sector’s ongoing evolution, as well as the international recognition it has of producing world-class products".
As highlighted in QMS's Red Meat Industry Profile 2024, the Scottish red meat sector generates £2.8 billion in output, contributes £839 million in Gross Value Added (GVA), and sustains 39,300 jobs, underscoring its substantial impact on Scotland’s economic landscape.
Lucy Ozanne added: "Our objective with these MP engagements is to ensure that key policy decision-makers are fully informed and gaining first-hand insight into the opportunities and challenges facing the red meat supply chain in Scotland, and more directly, in their own constituencies.
"Having direct conversations with MPs, we aim to highlight the impact that decisions made in Westminster can have on pressing issues such as trade, labour, and funding. This approach allows us to build a long-term strategy that not only benefits the sector but also strengthens the connections between local producers, processors, and policymakers, ensuring the red meat industry continues to thrive".
The series of engagements included:
Kate Rowell, Chair of QMS commented: “I am deeply encouraged by the proactive engagement of our newly elected and re-elected MPs in the red meat industry. These visits are an invaluable opportunity for us to showcase the crucial role this sector plays in supporting rural communities, providing jobs, and sustaining our national economy.
"By highlighting the challenges and opportunities within the supply chain, we can ensure our MPs understand the importance of reserved policy support in areas such as immigration and trade in maintaining the long-term sustainability of our industry. Their involvement is key to driving the future growth and resilience of Scotland's red meat sector".
In addition, QMS is committed to ongoing engagement with MSPs on devolved matters and at the end of July, met with Scottish Conservative MSP and Convener of the Rural Affairs, Islands and Natural Environment Committee, Finlay Carson (Dumfries and Galloway) at Dumfries Monitor Farm. Discussions centered on Scottish agricultural policy reform and the Monitor Farm programme.
QMS encourages further dialogue between MPs and the industry and invites other MPs to visit key industry sites.
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