NFU SCOTLAND'S board of directors this week mapped out its post-Brexit priorities for Scottish agriculture at a Westminster reception for over 30 MPs from across the UK.

The event, facilitated by Paul Monaghan MP, shone a spotlight on the main priorities for the industry – access to existing and new markets, a new agricultural policy, and importance of non-UK labour on our exit from the EU.

NFU Scotland’s Beyond Brexit documents, published last week, formed the basis for discussion at the reception, highlighting the importance of a robust trade agreement for Scottish produce, and an adequately funded policy framework for Scottish agriculture which will foster resilience, productivity and profitability for our industry in years to come.

Speaking from Westminster, union president Allan Bowie said: “Agriculture is at the heart of Scotland’s booming food and drink industry, which returns billions to Scotland’s economy and employs over 360,000 people.

“In addition, Scotland’s farmers and crofters underpin community life in some of the most remote parts of the country, contribute massively to environmental goals, and play a vital role to Scotland’s rural economy.

“It is for this reason that agriculture must not become expendable in the negotiations to leave the EU – a message the union has continually argued since the referendum outcome. Today’s well-attended event demonstrated that this message is being heard by parliamentarians and decision-makers, which is greatly encouraging.

“We are only at the start of what will be a long period of drawn out negotiations, and it is important we set out our principles of trade and agricultural policy for the long-term benefit for our industry at this relatively early stage."