The announcement by Morrisons on June 23 of its plans to significantly increase the processing of Scotch lamb at its Turiff plant has being described by NFU Scotland as a significant boost to the sheep industry. The announcement today by Rural Development Minister Ross Finnie highlighted the Scottish Executive's support for the project.

NFUS Vice President Bob Howat, speaking at the Royal Highland Show, said:

"This is excellent news for the Scottish sheep sector. Our lamb processing capacity has suffered blows in recent months, particularly with the loss of the Bathgate plant. However, the Morrisons deal announced today should more than make up for the Bathgate closure. Also, the efforts of Quality Meat Scotland in working with other facilities to increase their lamb processing capacity is also paying off and sheep producers across the country will benefit from increased access to quality markets.

"The support for this project from the Scottish Executive is also significant and shows the benefits to farmers of well-targeted support further up the supply chain."