Scotcast Tax rises and tattie troubles
Oct 16, 2025
In this engaging conversation, Darshini David, the BBC's Deputy Economics Editor, breaks down the complexities of the upcoming budget. She discusses possible tax rises and the implications for everyday people, emphasizing that changes often ripple through the economy. The dialogue shifts to Scotland’s potato farmers facing challenges from climate change and market demands, showcasing their resilience amid changing conditions. Listeners gain insight into both economic policies and agricultural struggles in a rapidly transforming landscape.
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On-the-Ground Potato Farming
- Caitlin describes going to potato fields and witnessing farmers battling unpredictable weather and pests firsthand.
- She observed potato harvesters and storage struggles that show farming requires intense, practical resilience.
Climate Unpredictability Harms Crops
- Climate change is shifting Scotland toward hotter, wetter, and less predictable conditions that harm potato varieties adapted to previous climates.
- That unpredictability matters more than single bad seasons because it undermines farmers' ability to plan and adapt.
Soil Pests Threaten Seed Industry
- Soil pests like PCN (a tiny worm) damage seed potatoes and threaten Scotland's important seed industry.
- Losing PCN-free land would end seed production and critically damage the sector's future.