Views consistent that members do not wish to see any significant changes

NFU Scotland continues to engage with tenant members on the devolution of Crown Estates, allowing them to air their views for future management options.

Turnout at two recent NFU Scotland-organised events has been excellent.  An open meeting on 7 December was attended by Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Food and Environment, Richard Lochhead in his capacity as an MSP, and was attended by over 70 people.  NFU Scotland President Allan Bowie also offered NFUS tenant members the opportunity to discuss concerns with him directly, at an open meeting at Ingliston on 14 December.

Members attending the meetings expressed a clear view that they do not wish to see any significant changes in the management of Crown Estate, however, have also voiced concern over the importance of Crown Estate maintaining its obligations with regards to ongoing maintenance and investment on its rural estate.

Following the meeting on 14 December, President Bowie thanked members who have attended the meetings so far and commented: “It is vitally important that our Crown Estate members continue to engage with us on these issues to make sure their views are represented.

“Views expressed to us so far by members have been remarkably consistent and it is these views that we will take forward to stakeholder groups and in our engagement with the Scottish Government Crown Estate Strategy Unit.

“The Union will continued to keep its members informed and ensure we have farmer input throughout the process.”

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Contact Ruth McClean on 0131 472 4108