NFU Scotland brought farmers, crofters and policymakers together last night (6 May) at a Parliamentary Reception in Holyrood to highlight the vital role of Scottish agriculture in delivering food security, climate action, biodiversity and rural prosperity. Held under the theme “Sustainability in Scottish Agriculture”, the event showcased voices from across the farming community - including young farmers - and demonstrated the wide-ranging impact of Scotland’s agricultural sector on the nation’s economy, environment and food system.
President Andrew Connon said:
“Our members are producing high-quality food, restoring nature, supporting rural jobs and are committed to helping tackle climate change. However we can only deliver these ambitions if government policy, funding and legislation continues to support profitable and resilient farm businesses.”
NFU Scotland used the reception to underline several key priorities for the sector:
- The need for a long-term, multi-annual funding commitment from the Scottish Government to underpin future viability.
- Action from supermarkets and government to ensure fair treatment for Scottish produce on shelves, following the union’s year-long ShelfWatch campaign.
- The importance of sensible, workable legislation in ongoing parliamentary Bills, including land reform and biodiversity.
Over 25 MSPs attended the event, with many engaging directly with farmers and crofters from their constituencies and regions across Scotland.
Mr Connon added:
“This was a powerful reminder that farmers and crofters are not just affected by legislation - they’re partners in delivering Scotland’s future. We thank Elena Whitham MSP for sponsoring the event, Minister Jim Fairlie MSP for speaking and every MSP who took the time to attend and listen. NFU Scotland will continue to ensure our members' voices are heard loud and clear as policy is shaped in the months ahead.”
Notes to editors:
- Scotland’s farm businesses produce an output of £3.3 billion annually and employ over 67,000 people.
- Scotland’s high-quality food production is key to the wider food and drink sector, which generates over £16 billion in turnover and supports more than 130,000 jobs.
- A 2024 NFU Scotland supply chain snapshot showed 12 farms spent £12.6 million with over 722 local businesses.
- See supply chain file attached
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Contact Carly Ross on 07860 642826