Good Food Nation: consultation

Foreword

In September 2018, we published our "Good Food Nation Programme of Measures" which highlights the many different activities we are doing, or plan to do, across Government to further our vision and aims as a Good Food Nation.

The Programme of Measures is a document which confirms this Government's continuing commitment to Scotland becoming a Good Food Nation where the people of Scotland have improved access to, and understanding of, the benefits of healthy local foods; our progressive food industry is clearly operating in a sustainable way; and our reputation as a Good Food Nation is widely understood and used as an example from which other countries can learn. In other words, we build on our already world-renowned reputation of our food and drink industry and ensure that the people of Scotland also benefit from, and understand, the quality produce on their doorsteps.

We are well on our way to becoming a Good Food Nation and as the Programme of Measures demonstrates, legislation is not essential in order to deliver action. We acknowledge, however, that there is value in having legislation to underpin the considerable work that is already being done to realise our Good Food Nation goals. During a parliamentary debate in September 2018, we undertook to introduce legislation. This consultation takes forward that promise.

This consultation sets out our proposals for legislation around the Good Food Nation ambition. I am keen to hear your views on our proposals and invite you to respond to this consultation.

Fergus Ewing
Cabinet Secretary for the Rural Economy
December 2018