Rural Payments and Services

Food Secretary disappointed TTIP was discussed behind closed doors.

Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Food and the Environment Richard Lochhead has expressed his disappointment that the issue of the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) was removed from the European Council agenda and discussed in private in Brussels today (Monday).

Mr Lochhead has urged both the Council and the Commission to be more transparent in forthcoming discussions around TTIP and asked that it remains a topic on future agendas.

He said:
“I was disappointed that the issue of TTIP, which is very topical in Scotland and across Europe, was removed from the European Council agenda and instead discussed behind closed doors in a private lunch meeting.

“I’m sure I am not the only person who was left frustrated by this. It is vitally important that Scotland is properly represented in discussions around TTIP so our questions can be adequately answered.

“TTIP and other trade negotiations present challenges and opportunities for Scotland’s agriculture and food and drink sectors, and I have sought assurances from the UK Government that any deal negotiated will not reduce the level of food, health, environmental or labour standards in Scotland.

“I also raised the issue of Scottish products with Protected Geographical status – whilst the TTIP will not result in a change to the levels of PGI protection within the EU, giving an enhanced status to some products in the US and not others may provide an unfair disadvantage.”