The Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland will continue with current plans in place for the Royal Highland Show (RHS) to showcase food and farming in Scotland, despite PETA calling for the event to become exclusively vegan.
The four-day event, which contributes around £39.5m to the economy and is attended by up to 200,000 visitors, connects producers and consumers from across the industry. This year will be the 201st show and will provide a platform for Scotland’s agriculture industry to showcase its skills and produce, including fruit and vegetables, oils, meat, and dairy produce such as ice cream and cheese.
Alan Laidlaw, RHASS chief executive officer, said: “We disagree with PETA’s misrepresentation of the Royal Highland Show including labelling sheep shearing as ‘cruel’ – this reflects a lack of understanding of what is required for good animal health, wellbeing and the importance of Scottish agriculture.
“I can only assume that this is to grab media attention, however while most will see through this for what it is, it has the potential to further undermine our proud agricultural sector and our farmers who work 24/7 to feed our nation with a wide choice of fruit, vegetables, dairy and meat for the many millions who choose to make that part of their diet.”
RHASS
With over 15,000 members, the RHASS promotes the interests of Scottish agriculture, including arable and horticultural farmers. The organisation arranges for around 40,000 children to attend the Show free of charge, enabling the next generation of farmers to learn more about food production.
RHASS aims to provide a platform for informed debate on food, farming, and the challenges the industry faces while celebrating the sector and its achievements and would welcome any future discussions with interested parties who wish to put Scottish agriculture and a thriving rural economy at the forefront of their plans.
Tickets for the Royal Highland Show 2023 are still on sale and can be purchased at royalhighlandshow.org.
