AS RECRIMINATIONS over the bird flu crisis continue to fly, a local MSP has urged local supermarkets to stock local products.

Significant parts of the Perthshire economy rely on the poultry business and North Tayside parliamentarian John Swinney believes the quality of information being offered to the public can play a critical role in protecting the fragile industry.

He insists Scottish poultry is of the “highest standard” and urged consumers to trust local producers during what he described as a “difficult time”.

The recent outbreak at a factory in England has been linked to a strain of the virus in Hungary and the politician has now asked the Scottish Executive how it intends to respond to the situation.

“I wanted to ask the first minister what the Executive is planning to do regarding the issuing of information on the quality and consumption of poultry in the light of the recent avian flu outbreak,” Mr Swinney said.

“Mr McConnell said the Executive would closely liaise with the poultry industry.

“I welcome the assurances given on the attempts to ensure that co-operation is undertaken at this potentially difficult time,” the MSP continued.

Mr Swinney insists domestically reared birds must not be shunned in the wake of the outbreak.

“In the light of recent news reports that the strain of avian flu found in the Bernard Mathews factory is linked to the detection of the virus in Hungary, it is vital that our own producers are supported,” he continued.

“Scottish poultry is of the highest standard and is produced in facilities with the highest degree of bio-security at all stages of production.

“Scottish supermarkets must support domestic producers and ensure that safe Scottish poultry is on our shelves.”

With a chicken factory in Coupar Angus, Mr Swinney believes hundreds of his constituents could be badly affected by the outbreak.

In response Mr McConnell said he “understood” the concerns raised by Mr Swinney.

“It is important that we maintain close liaison with the industry, that it is involved in our preparations and that we have clear communication with it on any steps that it requires to take,” he remarked.

“I have to say, in praise of the industry, that its co-operation has been exemplary.

“I am sure that if that co-operation continues we will be able to respond in kind with clearer and clearer communication and preparations.”