In a powerful address to open NFU Scotland’s 2026 AGM and Conference, Union President Andrew Connon made an unambiguous call to Government and the food supply chain: commit to long-term funding, enforce fairness, and level the playing field, or risk undermining the future of Scottish agriculture.
Speaking to a packed room of farmers, crofters and stakeholders at Glasgow’s Radisson Blu Hotel, Connon placed profitability at the heart of his message.
“Without profitability, we can’t invest. We can’t innovate. And we can’t deliver what Scotland needs from us, whether that’s food, climate action, or thriving rural communities,” he said.
The speech marked a turning point in the Union’s campaign for a more secure, sustainable future for farming. Just hours ahead of the launch of NFUS’s 2026 Scottish Parliament Manifesto, Connon issued a clear challenge:
To Government: Provide long-term, reliable support, enforce fairness in the food chain, and protect Scottish standards from low-quality imports.
To Retailers and Processors: Pay fair prices, commit to Scottish sourcing, and build lasting, transparent relationships with farmers.
To NFUS Members: Stay united, stay vocal, and stay involved – your voice drives the Union’s strength.
Connon also reflected on the progress made on Inheritance Tax reform, describing it as an example of the Union’s collective strength, while acknowledging that concerns remain and that further work is needed.
“That progress was only possible because members stood together and made their voices heard. But we know it doesn’t answer every concern, and our job isn’t finished. A strong Union doesn’t just raise issues – it stays the course. And we will continue to press for outcomes that support profitable, sustainable family farming.
He made it clear that 2026 must be a turning point in how farming is supported:
“This is a defining year. What happens next will shape the next decade. Government must choose: back farming properly or risk irreversible decline. Our asks set out a clear roadmap for delivering a profitable, sustainable and resilient future for Scottish agriculture.”
The AGM’s theme – Facing Change, Finding Opportunity – A Profitable Future for Scottish Agriculture – continues throughout the two-day event, with keynote contributions from the First Minister John Swinney, UK Minister Kirsty McNeill MP, Professor Sir John Curtice, and Baroness Minette Batters.
Notes to editors:
- A photograph of Andrew Connon on stage is attached
- Details of the event are available here.
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Contact Carly Ross on 07860 642826