With the Land Reform (Scotland) Bill expected to receive Royal Assent before the end of the year, NFU Scotland is urging Government and stakeholders to begin collaborative work on the vital secondary legislation process, particularly on Part 2 of the Bill, which directly affects Scotland’s tenanted sector.
This landmark legislation will lay the foundations for a comprehensive programme of work in 2026 to shape future arrangements and provide clarity on the technical and legal frameworks that underpin existing agricultural tenancies. For that process to succeed, meaningful engagement between Government, NFU Scotland, landowners, tenants and the wider industry will be essential.
NFU Scotland has long called for a balanced approach to land reform – one that provides security for current tenants while also creating the right conditions for future generations to thrive.
NFU Scotland Vice President Duncan Macalister said:
“As the Bill becomes law, the real work starts. We must now focus on getting the detail right, particularly around Part 2 of the legislation, which is critical for Scotland’s tenanted sector. That means close collaboration between Government and stakeholders like NFU Scotland, ensuring that existing tenants are properly supported while building a framework that encourages land to be made available for new and expanding businesses.”
There is broad recognition across the sector that those in current tenancies must be supported through any changes. However, NFU Scotland also stresses the need to look forward – creating opportunities for the next generation of farmers and giving confidence to those who own land that it is safe and sensible to make it available for productive use.
To help drive this agenda, NFU Scotland has undertaken a refocused body of work on agricultural tenancies. It will be making a series of significant announcements in 2026 to support members and promote a positive vision for the future of the tenanted sector.
Duncan Macalister added:
“We want to see a tenanted sector that is vibrant, fair and future-facing, one that gives people the opportunity to farm, and gives landowners the confidence to let. That’s the only way we’ll create the land opportunities Scotland needs to secure a sustainable agricultural future.”
NFU Scotland is committed to continuing constructive dialogue with policymakers and all stakeholders to ensure that land reform delivers for Scottish agriculture.
Notes to editors:
- A photograph of NFU Scotland Vice President Duncan Macalister is attached.
Contact Carly Ross on 07860 642826