IN THE week that an action plan aimed at increasing the number of starter farms on public land has been launched by the Scottish Government, the Scottish Association of Young Farmers Clubs has said that even more must be done to address the 'chronic lack' of farm land for new entrants.

SAYFC agri and rural affairs chairman, Sarah Allison, said: “The publication of the conclusions from the starter farm working group is a big step forward in recognising the issues and proposing solutions to the lack of land availability to new entrants.

"However, this on its own will not address the chronic lack of land available, and further work must be done to assess what kind of business environment is needed to create a thriving tenanted sector in Scotland once again."

Published in a 10 point action plan, the report sets out recommendations on how start-up grants and access to Basic Payments, allied to advice and skills programmes, can facilitate industry entry.

Rural economy secretary, Fergus Ewing said: “Supporting the next generation of farmers is a key priority to help build and grow our rural economy. New entrants are essential to any industry, bringing energy, enthusiasm, new ideas and approaches.

“We firmly believe that there is a supply of land in public ownership with the potential to offer a route into farming for new entrants," said Mr Ewing. "That is why we established this short life group to investigate how this land could be used to kick start the next generation of farmers, secure food production and boost our economy for years to come.

“I, therefore, very much welcome the New Farming Starter Opportunities on Publicly Owned Land report and would like to thank all those involved in pulling together such a comprehensive set of recommendations aimed at dramatically increasing the number of starter opportunities on public land.

“I am also delighted that Henry Graham has agreed to continue in his role as chair to set up and coordinate the New Entrants Opportunities Programme. I look forward to following the work of this group as it progresses over the coming years.”

For his part, Mr Graham added: “It was clear to all members of the group that new entrants are highly desirable and access to land is a key requirement.

"Those seeking to enter agriculture often require assistance to get on the first step of the farming ladder and the review found there is a supply of starter opportunities on publicly owned land. I now look forward to coordinating the New Entrants Opportunities Programme highlighted in the report.”