The consultation is being led by the UK Government and is designed to create a fairer marketplace for producers.

Highlands and Islands MSP Donald Cameron said: ‘We badly need a scheme which better supports our dairy farmers, and recognises the contribution they make to the rural economy.

‘Argyll and Bute retains a significant number of producers, especially in Kintyre and on Bute itself, and I am very keen that they should have the chance to influence the future of their industry by taking part in the consultation.

‘The need to address the unequal bargaining relationship with processors and retailers is urgent if we are to retain our dairy industry, a challenge which has been compounded by the failure of the SNP Government to introduce a dairy hardship fund during the pandemic, as has been done in England and Wales.’