Standing up for Angus farmers

UK Government "must wake up" to reality facing rural economy

Angus South SNP candidate Lloyd Melville this week visited Newton Farm Holidays in Inverarity to discuss the needs of the Angus rural economy.

Newton Farm Holidays is an agri-tourism business, which enables people to visit the working farm, and discover the heritage and culture of rural Angus.

On the visit, Mr Melville met with owners Louise and Graeme Nicoll, discussing the challenges facing local farmers, including the skyrocketing cost of heating oil, fertiliser and red diesel.

Mr Melville heard that, in the wake of the Iran War, the price of a full tank of fuel for a tractor has more than doubled - adding yet more pressure to local farmers.

Pledging to “always listen”, SNP candidate Lloyd Melville vowed to take rural concerns to Holyrood if elected.

“Farmers in Angus have been hit by huge costs on Westminster’s watch - from the impact of a Tory Brexit to the recent shocks which have sent the price of feed, fuel and fertiliser through the roof.

“It’s time for the UK Government to wake up to the needs of our rural economy, and ensure local farmers get support with these mounting costs.

“While these matters are reserved to the UK Parliament, I will always stand up for Angus residents and businesses.

“My pledge is to always listen to local farmers, and do my utmost at Holyrood to keep Angus as the breadbasket of Scotland for generations to come.”

SNP candidate Lloyd Melville