Farmers and Producers (UK and EU Markets)

Previously, of course, it was not an either/or. When we were in the European Union, our farmers were able to benefit from free access to an EU market of 450 million consumers, with funding stability provided by the common agricultural policy and much more.

Brexit, which the member’s party campaigned for and wanted, was a costly mistake, and our agri-food industry has suffered as a result. The United Kingdom Internal Market Act 2020, far from helping to ensure a functioning domestic market, is a recipe for confusion and uncertainty. We strongly support a closer relationship with the EU, including on agri-food, to help businesses to access the EU market in order to expand consumer choice and sustain Scotland’s agri-food sector. The best way to do that is, of course, with independence.

I will write to the member more broadly on the specific issues, but I would set out the hit that consumers and businesses, including in agriculture, have taken from leaving the EU. That includes a Treasury hit of £90 billion less in tax revenues—that is £250 million being wasted every single day—and UK food exports to the EU at well below pre-Brexit levels. Brexit has been a disaster. It is the 10th anniversary of the referendum in a couple of weeks’ time, and I hope that the member’s party will reflect on that.