SUPPORT LOCAL PRODUCERS OVER CHRISTMAS - HUME

12.00.00am GMT Mon 22nd Dec 2008

Jim Hume, MSP for the South of Scotland and Environment spokesperson, has urged people across Scotland to support local farmers and the Scottish economy this Christmas by buying locally produced food.Of the £20 billion that UK shoppers spend on Christmas, £1.6 billion is spent on food and drink. Commenting, Mr Hume said:"Eating local food makes even more sense over Christmas."On average 10 million turkeys and around 24 million jars of pickles and sauces are eaten over the festive period. If more people bought their Christmas feasts locally, it would give a much needed boost to local economies at a difficult time."Buying local, seasonal food is also good for the environment and local farmers. Locally produced Scottish food is often cheaper from markets and farm shops than it is in supermarkets."Liberal Democrats want to see the public sector take the lead in buying local produce. A good first step would be reforming public sector procurement to encourage the purchase of local food."I want to see the Scottish Parliament leading by example and increasing the amount of local food served in its cafe, restaurant and canteen. "By choosing more local food, we can cut down on harmful carbon emissions and support our farmers, fishermen, food producers and rural areas."

ENDS