MSP welcomes guidance for farmers over travel issue

Banff and Buchan MSP Stewart Stevenson has welcomed new guidance allowing the private trading of animals between individual farmers to be permitted under Regulations.

This Scottish Government today confirmed that if a journey to trade an animal is part of a commercial business, and is essential for that business, it can take place.

This follows the Banffshire and Buchan Coast MSP calling on the government to consider ease restrictions for farmers who have a reasonable excuse to travel for the purpose of work where it is not reasonably possible for that person to work from the place where they are living.

Journeys in connection with hobbies remain illegal, unless they are essential for animal welfare reasons, such as visiting a veterinary hospital.

Mr Stevenson commented:“It is welcome news today that farmers trading animals is considered an essential journey to ensure our agriculture sector is supported.

“It remains the case that farmers should stick to the Scottish Government advice to stay at home in order to stop the spread of this terrible virus unless for essential journeys.

“However, I welcome this move today which offers clarity on when transitions are deemed necessary for food production to continue.”

Do you want to respond to this article? If so, click here to submit your thoughts and they may be published in print.