UNITED we stand, divided we fall – that is the rallying call from Scotland's rural economy CabSec Fergus Ewing to his Welsh and Northern Irish counterparts.

In a letter sent earlier this week, Mr Ewing stressed that the devolved nations must speak with a united voice to protect common interests during the Brexit negotiations. Specifically, he set out the need for a unified position on matters which are currently the responsibility of the devolved administrations such as farming, fisheries and environmental protection, but which will no longer be subject to EU law.

Mr Ewing also asserted that, as these were already devolved matters, it was clear that the repatriated powers in these areas would become the responsibility of Edinburgh, Cardiff and Belfast after Brexit.

His letter sets out growing concern that the UK Government is not listening to the devolved administrations on matters linked to rural policy as it seeks new UK frameworks to replace those currently provided by membership of the EU.

“I believe Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland share the same position that full responsibility for the agriculture sector will sit with devolved administrations following the UK’s withdrawal from the EU, as now," said Mr Ewing.

“That is why I have written to my counterparts in the other devolved governments calling for a united voice in discussions with the UK Government. This can help secure the best possible outcome for the industry across the UK.”

The CabSec also attended the EU Agriculture and Fisheries Council in Luxembourg, where he met counterparts from Germany, France and Ireland as well as agriculture commissioner Phil Hogan, and repeated the message that Scotland remains committed to Europe, open for business and wants to continue working with colleagues across the EU in the best interests of farmers.

"The European Union provides significant support to Scottish rural communities and is a key market for the food and drink we produce," he said. "It is vital that other nations understand Scotland's position and just as vital for our farming and food industry that we work quickly to safeguard the links and relationships that benefit them when it comes to trade."