Farming remains vital to our local economy here in Dumfriesshire and is an important local employer both directly and indirectly. There are big challenges ahead for the industry and it is clear that the Scottish Government are not making things any easier. As your constituency MSP, I will speak up and speak out on behalf of local farmers and I am determined to ensure more is done to get the Government to see farming as a strategic industry and to protect our future food security. I also believe it is important that more is done to inform consumers and to support local produce. In particular, I am keen to see more done to promote family farming and to make it easier for young people and new entrants to get into the sector. I am a keen supporter of the Royal Highland Education Trust (RHET) and regularly attend local agricultural shows and events.