Greens welcome creation of Scottish Food Commission
The Scottish Greens have welcomed the creation of a Scottish Food Commission as part of the Good Food Nation Bill that is going through parliament. It follows an amendment that was lodged by Scottish Green MSP Ariane Burgess.
The Bill, which will be debated today, places a duty on local authorities, health boards and other public bodies to publish Good Food Nation Plans to move every part of the country towards this vision.
Speaking ahead of the stage three debate on the Bill, Ariane Burgess MSP said:
“This is a very important step for Scotland and our food system. I am delighted that the Greens and Scottish Government have agreed that an independent Food Commission, with broad expertise and understanding of all aspects of the food system, will be the best way to provide effective oversight and help drive fundamental change.”
"As I set out in my amendment, the Food Commission will play a key role in encouraging good health, promoting local and environmentally friendly food, improving animal welfare, and supporting the transition of Scotland's food system to net-zero."
“It was great to work with the Scottish Food Coalition and to have the input and experience of so many experts. Their feedback was crucial and has made for a stronger and more robust Bill.”
“Instead of contributing to existing problems, our food system can contribute to solutions – helping to improve health and wellbeing, strengthen national food security and local economies, provide good jobs, reach net zero, and ensure that everyone can enjoy the world-class food produced by our good food nation.”