To ask the Scottish Government what discussions the rural affairs secretary has had with ministerial colleagues regarding the potential impact on farmers and food producers of the introduction of meat-free days in public institutions, such as schools and hospitals. (S6O-04903)

It will come as no surprise to Murdo Fraser to hear me say that Scottish red meat is world renowned and is recognised as a good source of vital nutrients, including iron, zinc and vitamin B12. We continue to work with the sector to ensure that it thrives as part of a climate-smart food system. Decisions on which meals to serve are matters for each managing authority—whether it be public or private—because we recognise that they are best placed to take into account local dietary needs and demands. For example, in schools, provided that statutory food and drink standards are met, decisions on which products to include on menus are matters for the local authority.

I congratulate the Minister on his track record in producing healthy red meat on Scottish farms, but he will be familiar with the concern that Scottish farmers and food producers have expressed about the growth of meat-free days—for example, on school menus—and about the substitution of meat with heavily processed meat substitutes, instead of healthy, home-produced Scottish meat products.

In the area that the minister and I both represent, a group called ProVeg International is actively involved in designing school menus to reduce the availability of meat. Does the minister agree that we should support choice when it comes to menus in schools and elsewhere and that, just as there should always be vegetarian and vegan options for those who want to choose them, there should also be the option of healthy, home-produced meat for those who wish to choose it?

I am grateful to Murdo Fraser for bringing up that question, because the issue is close to my heart. I am aware of the concerns and campaigns among some stakeholders, and of the potential impact on farmers and food producers of the introduction of meat-free days in public institutions. Indeed, I will meet the local campaigner on that very issue on 19 September, in my capacity as a Constituency MSP.

The Scottish Government continues to keep a focus on food policy, based on scientific evidence, and in partnership with bodies such as Food Standards Scotland. I absolutely get the point that Murdo Fraser is making, which is that we should have a balanced diet for our children and young people.