UK Government Secretary of State for Scotland, David Mundell, has joined the line-up of speakers confirmed for this week's NFU Scotland Autumn Conference.

The Secretary of State will discuss the UK Government’s negotiating position towards the UK’s exit from the EU, and focus on how the interests of Scottish farming and crofting will be best represented. He will speak alongside AHDB’s chief strategy officer, Tom Hind, who will address concerns over future trade agreements, agricultural policy and labour requirements in a panel session dedicated to the latest Brexit developments.

This will follow a morning session with the convenors of the two Scottish Parliamentary committees dedicated to scrutinising legislation relevant to the agricultural sector – Edward Mountain MSP, of the Rural Economy and Connectivity Committee, and Graeme Dey MSP, of the Environment, Climate Change and Land Reform Committee.

Union president Allan Bowie commented: “NFU Scotland’s Autumn Conference has a refreshed format this year and it is testament to the significant rural affairs profile in the political agenda at present that the union has secured such a strong line-up of speakers.

“This is a one-off opportunity to put questions to the key players and negotiators in Scottish and UK politics at the present time.

“I am delighted the Secretary of State for Scotland will address delegates on the UK Government’s Brexit negotiations, at what is a time of significant uncertainty for all in our industry," said Mr Bowie. "It is vital that farmers and crofters are represented fully in this debate, and negotiators are left in do doubt that we are open for business, but only if we are provided with confidence moving forward.

“From the high-profile Brexit negotiations down to forthcoming Scottish legislation on climate change and food and drink, all will be up for discussion at the Autumn Conference and I encourage all members to take this opportunity to give their views.”