SNP must respond to livestock census (North Tayside Liberal Democrats)

North Tayside Liberal Democrats <info@libdems.org.uk>

SNP must respond to livestock census

September 25, 2008 10:33 AM
Originally published by Scottish Liberal Democrats

Liberal Democrat Rural Affairs spokesperson Liam McArthur MSP has urged the Scottish Government to respond to census figures showing an alarming drop in livestock numbers by bringing forward LFASS payments to the end of the year.

Soaring feed, fuel and fertiliser costs mean that many of Scotland's most vulnerable farmers and crofters are experiencing serious short-term cash flow problems. Today's figures suggest that many farmers are effectively giving up on a future in the industry.

Commenting, Mr McArthur said:

"These figures confirm my fears that soaring fuel, feed and fertiliser costs are prompting some farmers to give up on a future in the industry.

"The Government must respond urgently to dropping livestock numbers and support farmers and crofters struggling with short-term cash flow problems.

"Liberal Democrats have called on the SNP Government to bring forward LFASS payments by the end of October. Like the NFUS, we do not believe this would compromise Single Farm Payments, due to be made in December. In light of today's figures, it is not good enough for Ministers to say that it is too difficult."