Written by Ross Macleod, Head of Policy Scotland
2 Minute Read
30th November is etched into the Scottish calendar as it marks Saint Andrew's Day - perhaps less well known as the Feast of Saint Andrew. It’s therefore entirely appropriate that both Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) and the Institute of Auctioneers and Appraisers Scotland (IAAS), backed by the Scottish Government, have launched a campaign to encourage the wider public to choose Scotch Lamb for this occasion.
Neil Wilson, IAAS Executive Director, comments that “Scotch Lamb is produced to the highest welfare and environmental standards and it is a privilege to help promote lamb as the meal of choice to celebrate St Andrew’s Day as well as being a great meal option for households throughout the year.”
Of course, you might well ask: “What does this have to do with the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust?” The answer is that the quality production of lamb to the highest welfare and environmental standards is precisely what we strive for at our Game & Wildlife Scottish Demonstration Farm.
It lies at the heart of our aim to match productive, efficient farming with healthy habitats and thriving wildlife. We work hard to retain nationally important populations of Curlews, Lapwings and Oystercatchers alongside our farming operation. Getting this balance right is critical for the future as all farms rise to the challenge of combating climate change at the same time as looking after our precious biodiversity. It forms a key part of GWCT’s work in Scotland on research, policy recommendations and practical advice.
We are delighted to support the #LambforStAndrewsDay campaign and are equally pleased to know that 180 schools and 30,000 home economic pupils across Scotland have signed up to cook and eat Scotch Lamb on the day.