Concerns at land reform proposals

Scottish Land and Estates have long had a presence at Turriff show, for us it is an opportunity to meet with members and non-members in a less formal setting to discuss what is important to them. SLE members cover a wide range of topics over almost all types of rural business. It is not a surprise though that at Turriff agriculture and land use was top of the agenda. Members looking for an update on progress for future farm support schemes, as well as what the direction of travel will be to integrate land management for the environment and biodiversity was a common theme.

There was also a lot of concern around the recent rhetoric of land reform, with the first minister recently stating he is considering bringing the threshold for a “large landholding” down from the initially suggested 3000ha to 500ha, which along with language around any farmer being “super rich” and those growing their business being “expansionist farmers” is a concern for many people, who are simply doing their best to deliver food, climate mitigation, biodiversity outcomes while remaining a viable business.

At the show we also had partners on our stand, with Police Scotland’s rural crime team speaking to farmers and land managers about how to minimise risk of crime, NatureScot highlighting opportunities through Peatland Action, We also had our Insurance partners Lycetts and Savills staff on the stand to share their knowledge and experience. For us it is really about providing a place where people can come to ask questions or raised issues and by having a mix of expertise it brings a mix of people, our ever poplar badge making for children was also extremely busy on Sunday.

Personally I really enjoy summer show season, it is a chance to faces to name and chat about what is important to people, which can be any aspect of their business. We see a wide range of members as wells as industry professionals and of course political engagement is also key.