HC Deb 01 February 1991 vol 184 cc682-3W
Mrs. Ray Michie

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland how many people are employed in the manufacture of Scottish food; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Allan Stewart

There were an estimated 43,200 people employed in firms employing more than 10 workers in Scotland in 1989 in the manufacture of food. The food manufacturing industry remains an important industry in Scotland employing more than one in 10 of all manufacturing employees.

Mrs. Ray Michie

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland (1) what plans he has to promote Scottish food abroad; and if he will make a statement;

(2) what were the reasons for the withdrawal of funds from Scottish Food Promotion; who will carry out its functions in future; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Michael Forsyth

Scottish Food Promotion Ltd. was established in 1987 with support from the Scottish milk marketing board, Scottish salmon board, Scotch Quality Beef and Lamb Association, and the Scottish Development Agency and Highlands and Islands development board. Support from the two development agencies was made on a reducing basis over a three-year period, with the expectation that funding from the private sector would eventually replace public support.

I understand that the SFP board decided to wind up the company when it was unable to attract funding for its new business plan. The promotion of sales by Scottish food and drink companies is primarily a matter for the companies themselves. The Government do provide support through Food From Britain and the Department of Trade and Industry. I understand that the SDA is considering what further public support is needed for Scottish companies and that it will maintain a Scottish presence at major food and drink trade shows.