MSP KICKS OFF SUMMER TOUR IN EAST LOTHIAN

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Tue 3rd Jul 2007

As part of his first summer tour, Jim Hume, MSP for the South of Scotland, today saw the Linking Environment and Farming project at work on Woodhead Farm in East Lothian, one of the many demonstration farms in Scotland.

Jim Hume said:-

“The idea behind LEAF is Integrated Farm Management. In other words, this commonsense integrated approach mixes traditional and modern farming practices which in turn creates and supports sustainable farming both environmentally and economically.

“And it doesn’t just operate in Scotland, LEAF is part of a European wide initiative called the European Initiative for Sustainable Development in Agriculture which aims to create a united approach to sustainable farming across Europe.

“LEAF works in partnership with various conservation bodies, government agencies, farmers’ organisations and many more groups with an interest. Apart from the obvious agricultural benefits, it also provides a place for our young people to learn about the food we eat and where it comes from and that’s why I would encourage anyone to visit one of the demonstration farms.”

Hugh Broad of Woodhead Farm added:-

“Essentially LEAF’s mission is to produce wholesome food in a way that enhances the environment and earns the confidence and respect of our customers.

“As custodians of the land, farmers do care for the environment. Not only do we have to ensure we are producing the best products safely, we also have to demonstrate it.”