McInnes demands support for pig farmers

9.01.00am GMT Wed 5th Mar 2008

North East Scotland MSP Alison McInnes today backed Scottish pig farmers who rallied in Westminster this week in response to falling pork prices.

According to the National Pig Association, pig farmers face an average loss of £26 on every pig they produce.

Ms McInnes said: "Pig farmers are under intense pressure. Whilst the North East escaped foot and mouth directly, restrictions on movement and an export ban severely impacted their business. Combined with rocketing feed prices and now falling pork prices, this has dealt a critical blow to the sector."

Feed prices have doubled over the past year.

She continued: "Government compensation for pig farmers is overdue, and I hope the Rural Affairs Secretary will act swiftly."

Ms McInnes called for government support for pig farmers, and welcomed news that the Scottish Parliament's Rural Affairs and Environment Committee has invited pig farmers to give evidence to MSPs next month.

The Committee has also invited the Rural Affairs Secretary to attend the session.