Richard Lochhead’s Oxford plea for seat at EU negotiating table

Richard Lochhead did not miss the chance to repeat his plea for a seat at the farming negotiating table in Brussels.

The Rural Affairs Secretary said it should be part of the Smith Commission proposals for more devolved powers.

He told the conference the present position of exclusion was unacceptable. The 45% of Scots who voted for independence expected a “bigger voice” in Europe and so, he claimed, did the majority of the 55% who voted No.

Admitting a tripartite approach involving Mr Lochhead, Defra ministers and the EU worked in the Fisheries Council, Defra Under Secretary George Eustice said: “The ultimate point is the UK position needs UK representation, and when I speak at the EU I represent all parts of the UK.

“That would be much harder for a devolved minister.

Huw Irranca-Davies for Labour said: “Remember, this is not only about Scotland; Northern Ireland and Wales have to be consulted, too, before a UK minister takes the position forward. There has been real progress in this.”

But Mr Lochhead disagreed, saying: “There has never been a proper framework for agreeing joint positions.”