SCOTLAND'S wild venison should given the same protected geographic status as Scotch Lamb and Stornoway Black Pudding.

This week, while attending Scotland’s first venison summit in Battleby, near Perth, rural economy secretary Fergus Ewing commented on the application to the EU seeking registration of the name Scottish Wild Venison as a protected geographical indication: “I am very aware of the importance that protected geographical indication provides for a range of Scottish products.

“That is why I believe it is vital that this protection is maintained post-Brexit, and to that aim, I am working with other administrations to explore the range of options that best ensure procedures are in place to protect our national larder.

“Venison has enjoyed tremendous market growth over the last decade with the potential for much more based on its clear health credentials," added Mr Ewing. "I believe today’s summit has the potential to further drive the venison sector forward and I am encouraged to see that some of that work has already started in the form of a PGI application for Scottish wild venison.

“I would encourage anyone with an interest in this area to respond to the PGI consultation, which closes on May 16 and seeks to protect the geographical indication of the product where the name Scottish Wild Venison can only be associated with meat derived from free-roaming deer species in Scotland, including the Scottish islands.”