SNP considers drastic reduction in livestock numbers, but no decision yet
SNP First Minister John Swinney ignited a row at First Minister's Questions this week by refusing to rule out implementing the Climate Change Committee's recommendations that Scotland reduces its livestock herd by 25% and cuts its meat consumption by a third.
This is similar to some of the debates we've seen in the English parliament, sparked by such recommendations. But we must listen to what ministers say. They understand that fresh meat, as part of a balance diet, plays a valuable role in keeping the population adequately nourished and healthy. They also know that there's a tipping point, beyond which farming becomes unviable and threatens our long term food security.
Mr Swinney said: "the government will, in an orderly fashion, consider the advice of the committee on climate change and set out our own proposals for taking the action that is absolutely necessary." That last bit is important and can be interpreted in a couple of different ways. We hope he means that any policy decisions balance dietary needs with net zero ambitions and don't compromise people's health.