NFU Scotland welcomes report into farm assurance

NFU Scotland’s Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Policy, Jonnie Hall, said: “We welcome this timely, comprehensive and independent, report which has unearthed the concerns and issues that we knew many of our members have about farm assurance in general.

“By setting out the importance of effective farm assurance, the report makes it clear that currently there are flaws and weaknesses that must be addressed.

"But, in setting out examples of good practice including those from schemes operating in Scotland, the report also provides a clear way forward for farm assurance and we are committed to playing our part in making that happen.

"Essentially, what we are looking at is a fundamental reset of farm assurance in the UK to ensure it works for the entire supply chain, not least the primary producer and the end consumer. 

"Ensuring confidence in a robust and effective farm assurance system will be crucial for profitable farming and crofting in Scotland."

He added: “This thoroughly comprehensive and independent review of farm assurance means we can be confident that nothing has been overlooked.

"Having gone through the report, we are endorsing all nine of the of the strategic recommendations made.

"NFU Scotland is committed to delivery of the relevant actions and timescales identified and will actively seek to work alongside others in doing this. 

"If the required reset of farm assurance is to happen, and with some urgency, all the relevant organisations must work together to ensure the clear actions identified are effectively carried out."

The UK Farm Assurance Review Report can be found here.