NFU Scotland has issued a response following the passing of the Land Reform (Scotland) Bill at Holyrood, expressing concern over provisions that could undermine access to land for tenants and new entrants.
Over the course of the Bill's development, NFU Scotland has maintained consistent engagement with MSPs across all parties and with the Scottish Government to ensure the voice of the farming community has been heard.
NFU Scotland President Andrew Connon said:
“Our position has always been that land reform must not compromise access to land for tenants or the next generation of farmers. We have concerns that this Bill does not align with this. We support proportionate land use responsibilities, but the focus must remain on how land is used, not who owns it.”
Key Positions:
- Land Management Plans (LMPS):
NFUS expressed deep disappointment that the threshold for LMPS has been set at 1,000 hectares. The Union will continue to press for safeguards around commercially sensitive data and a pragmatic approach that avoids excessive bureaucracy.
- Fines for Non-Compliance:
NFUS had been concerned about the increase of fines for breaches, but welcomed reassurances from the Cabinet Secretary that £40,000 fines will be a last resort, not a first step, and that enforcement will be proportionate.
- Lotting of Land:
While disappointed that the controversial lotting provisions remain in the Bill, NFUS recognises the value of new exemptions for certain non-controversial transfers - something the Union strongly lobbied for and will continue to shape in implementation.
- Resumption Provisions:
NFU Scotland remains deeply concerned that the enabling powers in the Bill could be used to make retrospective changes to 2003 Act tenancies, which would undermine confidence in long-term land agreements.
- Review Mechanism:
The introduction of a requirement for the Land and Communities Commissioner to review Part 1 of the Bill will ensure there is oversight on the Bill’s impact and effectiveness.
A Voice for the Next Generation
NFUS continues to emphasise that any land reform framework must not deter landowners from letting land, particularly for family farms and next-generation farmers.
“Farming’s future depends on opportunity,” added Connon. “And for many, that opportunity starts with access to land. We must not undermine confidence in letting land. A thriving tenanted sector is vital to the health of Scottish agriculture.”
Looking Ahead
“NFUS remains committed to constructive engagement with government and stakeholders. Our goal is a land reform system that supports Scotland’s farmers, crofters and rural communities for generations to come.”
NFU Scotland will continue to work closely with the Scottish Government as the guidance and secondary legislation is worked on to ensure it is fair, transparent and workable.
Ends
Contact Carly Ross on 07860 642 826