Councillor Alastair Redman has said he shares the concern of local farmers and crofters that calls for radical changes to the law regarding livestock transport could threaten their businesses.

Cllr Redman said: “I share the concern expressed by NFU Scotland and local producers that some of the proposals made in response to the Defra consultation on animal transport, and the parallel exercise by the Scottish Government, could threaten the sustainability of agricultural businesses here in Argyll and Bute, which are heavily dependent on their ability to move livestock.

“Our local producers are exemplary when it comes to animal welfare and we have an excellent record of ensuring all the requirements are met for the safe transportation for livestock.

“I cannot stress enough that farming and crofting provides the bedrock of the local economy and makes an irreplaceable contribution to the social fabric of our communities.

“We must not allow well-intentioned but ill-thought out proposals to put jobs and livelihoods at risk in areas where there may not be many alternative options for local people.”