Stevenson Urges Support for Local Produce

Banff & Buchan MSP Stewart Stevenson has called on shoppers to support local business and buy local. Mr Stevenson made the call as he visited local shops as part of during his surgery tour to highlight the quality produce available and the problems being caused by current export restrictions.

The Scottish National Party MSP has previously supported campaigns to encourage people to use local produce where possible and support local producers and retailers but the message is all the more important with the current Foot & Mouth outbreak putting severe pressure on the agricultural sector.

Commenting Mr Stevenson said:

"In recent weeks the National Farmers Union has been running a 'What's On Your Plate' campaign that has been highlighting the fantastic quality of produce available on our doorstep and the need to reduce the number of miles that food travels to reach the dinner table.

"Clearly with the current Foot and Mouth outbreak the message could not be more timely.

“The outbreak has resulted in export restrictions which will be in place for some time and this puts tremendous pressure on the agricultural sector and associated businesses. Buying local helps ease some of this pressure and in the longer-term leads to a much more sustainable market.

"The agricultural industry is facing a serious threat and needs as much support as people can give them.

I urge everyone in Banff & Buchan to help as much as they possibly can by buying local and supporting local business."