Orkney and Shetland MP, Alistair Carmichael, has called out government “incompetence” after it emerged that ministers have agreed to sell out UK farmers and crofters in order to get a trade deal with Australia. Mr Carmichael responded to reports in the Sun that the Prime Minister had already decided to concede zero tariff, zero quota access for Australian goods ahead of further negotiations in order to secure a deal, putting the economic security of farmers and crofters at risk. Farming and environmental groups have expressed strong concerns about an open access deal due to Australia’s lower welfare standards, including the use of growth hormones. Australian farming leaders have predicted a “tenfold” rise in beef exports to the UK if a deal is struck.

Orkney and Shetland MP, Alistair Carmichael, has spoken out in Parliament about the essential role of food production in the isles economy, and reiterated calls for changes to animal transport rules to take the circumstances of the isles into account. Mr Carmichael highlighted the Scottish Government’s consultation on changes to transport regulations and warned that there would be severe impacts if allowances were not made for the isles.

Orkney and Shetland MP, Alistair Carmichael, has spoken out today about his concerns relating to the Co-op’s plans to expand operations in Shetland communities. Speaking in a parliamentary debate on UK meat and dairy produce, Mr Carmichael highlighted the important role played by independent shops in the isles and their role in supporting local food producers.

Orkney and Shetland MP, Alistair Carmichael, has spoken out about a “crisis of confidence” in the Scottish Fisheries Protection Agency, following evidence that the agency was targeting local vessels more than international fishing boats for inspections. Speaking to BBC Radio Scotland Mr Carmichael highlighted the problems found with centralised, distant authorities for fisheries and called for a redesign in fisheries management.

Orkney and Shetland MP, Alistair Carmichael, has reacted to the First Minister’s announcement today that the Northern Isles would come out of Covid restrictions at the same time as the rest of Scotland, with a move to Level 2 on 17 May. The news comes after almost a month of doubt over the status of Scottish islands in restriction changes, after a confusing and poorly implemented survey was released with little information some weeks ago.

Responding to news that the Spanish gillnet trawler Pesorsa Dos is again fishing to the west of Shetland, Orkney and Shetland MP Alistair Carmichael said:

Orkney and Shetland MP, Alistair Carmichael, has backed businesses which are concerned about the confusing and opaque plans from the Scottish Government for changes to Covid restrictions in the isles. Business groups including the Scottish Tourism Alliance have voiced frustrations that there is no clear path for the isles in coming out of lockdown, while local officials and constituents have been confused by the Scottish Government’s survey on relaxing isles restrictions, which was open for just a few days last week, saw many complain about technical issues submitting answers, and involved no outreach to local councils.

Liberal Democrat Home Affairs spokesperson, Alistair Carmichael MP, has today joined a group of 70 MPs, organised by Big Brother Watch and Liberty, in pushing back against the idea of a “Covid pass” or vaccine passport – a certification scheme to force people to prove vaccination status in order to access services. Mr Carmichael and the Liberal Democrats have been outspoken opponents of the plans since a review was announced in recent weeks.

Orkney and Shetland MP, Alistair Carmichael, has asked for a statement from the Secretary of State for Transport to explain plans to reach a deal with the EU on aviation navigation services, after concerns were raised with the MP by local constituents about the gap in safety.

Liberal Democrat spokesperson on Home Affairs, Alistair Carmichael MP, has spoken out against the Coronavirus Act during a debate on its renewal last night. Mr Carmichael highlighted the concerns of civil rights organisations about possible new measures like vaccine “passports” which could be required in order to go to bars and restaurants.