Ahead of a landmark year in Scottish politics, NFU Scotland has appointed Clare Slipper (23) as its full-time Parliamentary Officer.

With a first class honours degree in Politics and Sociology and two years of experience with a public affairs and lobbying organisation, Clare takes up post in a year that will bring a referendum on Scottish independence, European elections, land and tenancy reform debates and key decisions on CAP Reform implementation in Scotland.

Commenting on Clare’s appointment, NFU Scotland Chief Executive Scott Walker said:

“The timing of Clare’s appoint as our full-time Parliamentary Officer could not have been better.  

“With a new set of MEPs to be elected in May, ongoing CAP implementation discussions to be had, land and tenancy reform on the agenda and the Scottish independence referendum in September, it is a year which has huge implications for the political landscape in Scotland.

“NFU Scotland can be very proud of the links it has established with politicians and their staff – whether in Holyrood, Westminster or Brussels – and this appointment will build on our activity and allow us to fine-tune our political messages.

“Getting the ear of politician and influencing policy is at the core of NFU Scotland’s role but it is an area where there is a lot of competition from individuals and other organisations.  NFUS has a solid reputation with parliamentarians in the professional way that we conduct our business and having Clare fully committed to parliamentary work will help ensure that Scotland’s farmers’ voices continue to be heard.”

Notes to Editors

• Clare Slipper qualified from Newcastle University with a First Class Honours degree in Politics and Sociology.  She has previously worked for a lobbying firm assisting clients with strategic public relations, co-ordinating corporate events, liaising with government departments and press and providing parliamentary briefings on local, Scottish and UK levels.
• Clare can be contacted on Tel: 0131 472 4182; Mob: 07780 607225; Email: clare.slipper@nfus.org.uk
• A photograph of Clare is available on request from media@nfus.org.uk

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Contact Bob Carruth on 0131 472 4006