CANDIDATES in the upcoming Scottish Parliament election are to take part in a panel discussion on Scotland’s food system.
The election hustings, hosted online by the Scottish Food Coalition and chaired by former BBC Scotland political editor Brian Taylor, gives voters the opportunity to question party plans on food policy.
A recent survey, commissioned by Nourish, a member of the Scottish Food Coalition, shows significant public support for legislation to transform Scotland’s food system.
The line-up includes Jim Fairlie from the SNP, Labour’s Rhoda Grant, Mags Hall of the Scottish Greens, LibDem Liam McArthur and Brian Whittle from the Conservatives. The hustings will cover four key themes: jobs, health, poverty, and climate and nature.
Professor Mary Brennan, chair of the Scottish Food Coalition, said: “It has never been a more important time to talk about food policy and Scotland’s food system.
“The last year has shown how heavily society relies on our food system and it has emphasised the importance of building resilience within it. Many people face the twin burdens of poverty and ill health, whilst our natural resources, animals, and workforce are exploited.
“To reimagine the food system, so that everybody can access enough good food, we need to see that all these problems are connected and we need to question the very system that underpins our approach to food.
“Tinkering at the edges, or focusing on any one of these issues without consideration of the others, is not enough. The pandemic has shone a light on how vulnerable we really are.
“The election in May is the public’s chance to question candidates on their policies and ensure the issue is given its rightful place at the top of the political agenda.”
The hustings will take place tomorrow, between 5.30 pm and 7.30 pm. To attend register at www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/141961944999
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