MSP salutes farmers during Veganuary

A CONSERVATIVE MSP has backed local meat producers this 'Veganuary'.

Highlands and Islands MSP Jamie Halcro Johnston, who hails from a farming family in Orkney, highlighted the quality of meat produced across Moray and the north and the contribution the sector makes to local economies.

With January dubbed 'Veganuary' by proponents of veganism, Mr Halcro Johnston said: "Undoubtedly different people will have different approaches to food. But we should keep in mind the importance of the farming sector to the region’s economy, the excellent quality of our local produce and the world-leading animal welfare standards that we enjoy in the UK."

The MSP attended an event in the Scottish Parliament hosted by Quality Meat Scotland on Tuesday. He said: "Scotland has an international reputation for the quality of its meat and how it’s reared. Our farmers make a massive contribution to the prosperity of our country.

"The very landscape and culture of the Highlands and islands is profoundly influenced by the work of our farming community – one which employs thousands of people directly and indirectly.

"Of course, Scotland is also home to fantastic producers of vegetables too. And, during Veganuary, I would urge people to support this sector by putting locally sourced vegetables to their best possible use – accompanying high-quality Scottish meat on a plate."

Veganuary began in 2014, encouraging people to go vegan for the month of January and offering advice to those who want to make that lifestyle choice.

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