Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
Discussions about the decline in Scotland's beef breeding herd and overall livestock numbers, including dairy cattle, pigs, and chickens.
What recent discussions has the Minister had with relevant stakeholders on Scottish livestock numbers? The beef breeding herd is down 373,000 over a decade, indicating industry distress. In her initial response, she mentioned food security as national security; however, why do she and the Secretary of State allow the SNP to use devolution to shield from responsibility?
It is a question of accountability, not shielding. Farming is devolved and the SNP has failed to support Scotland's farmers; high rejection rates in their future farming investment scheme illustrate this failure.
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Assessment & feedback
The Minister did not provide specific commitments or actions addressing declining livestock numbers despite acknowledging food security as a national priority.
Accountability Instead Of Action
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Discussion about the decline in livestock numbers and the SNP's role in devolved agricultural matters.
The beef breeding herd has declined significantly over a decade, with dairy cattle, pigs, and chickens also decreasing. In response to food security being national security, why do the Minister and Secretary of State allow the SNP to avoid responsibility through devolution?
Farming is a devolved matter and the SNP has failed to support Scotland's farmers; high rejection rates in their future farming investment scheme indicate overly bureaucratic practices.
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Assessment & feedback
The Minister did not address specific steps or commitments regarding declining livestock numbers despite recognizing food security as a national priority.
Accountability Instead Of Action
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
Increased funding provided to the Scottish Government by a UK Labour Government; the SNP's role in supporting Scotland's rural industries.
By ending Tory austerity, this UK Labour Government has increased settlement to the Scottish Government by nearly £12 billion. Does the Minister agree it is time for Scotland's rural industries to be properly supported and recognised?
Farms and farmers are vital as food providers, countryside guardians, and economic contributors; it is time for the SNP Scottish Government to recognise this.
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Assessment & feedback
The Minister did not provide specific commitments or actions regarding supporting Scotland's rural industries despite recognizing their importance.
Vague Recognition Without Action
Response accuracy