Priorities for SBCA

• Increase the ex-farm price of beef in Scotland. One area already receiving our intention is the reduction of processing costs which are ultimately passed back to producers. For example, the adoption of new technology to improve grading by video image analysis (VIA) is fully supported by SBCA.
  
• Maintain and build the Scottish premium. The premium over other countries is both real and deserved based on the superior quality of Scottish beef.  This has been achieved by significant producer investments on farms and in organisatioons like QMS over many years.  A premium brand needs to be protected by tight labelling legislation and SBCA fully supports QMS in extending beef labelling regulations to the important restaurant sector.  Our aim must be to win a premium position on export markets similar to the 20% wholesale premium held by Scottish salmon in France - a position that we held for beef prior to the BSE crisis.
  
• Demand a level playing-field for beef imported to the EU. Standards demanded from Scottish farmers must be applied to all competitors. SBCA are liaising with Irish farming and political leaders and putting pressure on EU officials with particular reference to Brazilian beef imports.
  Consult and negotiate with the Scottish Government to ensure fair and efficient actions for Scottish beef producers in the areas of SFP, animal health and transport.
  
• Represent beef producers on QMS and other standard setting bodies.  The standards and inspection protocols were dsigned by farmers and need to be constantly reviewed - particularly when ownership of QMS transfers to government.
  
• Support all other organisations representing Scottish beef producer's interests - particularly NFUS, SAMW and QMS.  Working together, we can exert additional influence on consultations and negotiations with government policy makers.