The letter, which was sent ahead of today’s vote in the House of Commons, was signed by Scotland Food and Drink chief executive, James Withers; Scott Walker, chief executive of National Farmers Union Scotland; Alan Clarke, Quality Meat Scotland chief executive; David Thomson, chief executive of Food and Drink Federation Scotland among others.
Highlighting the fact that the Scottish food and drink, and farming industry is worth a total £14bn, the letter “implores politicians of all parties to unite immediately and reject the option of a no deal Brexit” claims ‘The Press and Journal.’
It reads: “Whilst recognising there is no political consensus yet on a future trade relationship with Europe, the potentially catastrophic impact of not reaching any deal is clear.
“We are collectively hugely ambitious for the growth of our industry. However, even using the UK Government’s own projections, we estimate the cost of No Deal to our industry would be at least £2billion in lost sales annually. That is on top of the short-term chaos resulting from transport delays and labour shortages.
“Indeed, our businesses are already bearing the cost of No Deal, having to spend millions of pounds in time and investment to mitigate the potential disruption that will stem from the UK crashing out of the EU.
“We represent the people who farm Scotland’s land and seas, and food and drink businesses that are the nation’s largest onshore manufacturing industry, employing 120,000 people. The EU accounts for 70% of Scottish food exports annually and it is also the source of crucial inputs and supplies for our sector.
“By parliament rejecting a No Deal scenario, our industry effort can focus on shaping a future relationship with the EU that we can work with, not preparing for the fallout we can’t.
“There is no tolerance for No Deal as an option. It must be rejected now.”
Maureen Watt, of the SNP, told the publication: “This is a significant intervention about the threat to a vital part of Scotland’s economy – and it should focus minds among the Tories.
“Theresa May must stop threatening a no-deal Brexit in order to force her deal through parliament.”