Scottish Government publishes 'vision' for the future of agriculture

A Scottish Bill which intends to reform how to support farming and food production has been hailed a 'massive step' for farmers.

The Scottish Government has today (September 29) published a draft of the Agriculture and Rural Communities Bill, which has set out plans to introduce new powers as part of primary legislation upon which Scotland's future agriculture policy will be built.

See also: From the editor: 'Farmers cannot go on producing milk under the cost of production, spurred on solely by the hope of improvement'

The Bill has now started its progression through Scottish Parliament, with an expectation it will be adopted by Summer 2024 and implemented from 2026 onwards.

Scottish Government said it aimed to deliver upon on its 'Vision for Agriculture' - which would help farmers and crofters to produce more of what Scotland eats more sustainably, to support their essential role in delivering climate mitigation and adaptation, and in biodiversity restoration.

See also: 'Lamb for St Andrew's Day' to educate more than 24,000 children about the benefits of farmer's produce

The Bill will enable a payments framework in a 'drive towards low carbon approaches to improve the resilience, efficiency and profitability of the sector'.

Rural Affairs Secretary for Scotland, Mairi Gougeon, said she wants to see Scotland become a 'global leader in sustainable and regenerative agriculture'.

"Introducing this new Bill to parliament is a significant milestone in reforming the support systems which will empower Scotland's farmers and crofters to cut climate emissions and restore nature, helping us achieve our vision," Ms Gougeon added.

"I understand the sector needs flexibility now and in the future to respond to the pressures and challenges we will face.

"As we move forward our Bill will allow for adaptive support for farmers, crofters and land managers in the near, medium and long term future.

"We will take the time necessary develop the detail of our policy with the people directly affected by it.

"Financial support is available right now to help farmers prepare for the changes which are coming - and today we are also launching a call to the sector to participate in interviews, surveys, online and in-person workshops, over the coming months that will help shape future support and how it is delivered.

See also: Scottish meat industry calls for 'help' to stem decline in production

"Our Agricultural Reform Route Map provides a clear set of programme dates to explain when current schemes will transition or end and when more guidance, support and information will be available. 

"This will be updated and we will communicate with the agriculture sector to ensure everyone is fully prepared and supported for change."

See also: Scottish Government pushing riparian planting agenda to boost biodiversity and nature recovery

Jonnie Hall, director of policy at NFU Scotland, said Scottish ministers had the power to deliver a future 'support network' for farmers despite requesting a need for 'finer details' in the Bill.

Mr Hall added: "Scottish agriculture is being asked to do much of the heavy lifting to meet Scotland's climate and nature goals, whilst also continuing to produce food of the highest quality and sustain the socio-economic fabric of our rural communities - the issues Part 1 of the Bill addresses.

See also: NFUS president justifies relationship with Scottish Government

"Scottish agriculture is up to the task, but it will need economically viable support to provide financial stability and to recognise and reward the vast array of positive outcomes which only active farming and crofting can provide.

"At first glance alone, it is clear there are elements included in the Bill that we have advocated for from the outset. 

See also: Scottish Fruit and veg sector to receive support

"But there are also other sections that need real interrogation.

"We must, for example, have assurance of a multi-annual support framework.

"The legislation has to work for and with farmers and crofters if its goals are to stand any chance of success."

Scottish Wildlife Trust's head of policy, Bruce Wilson, praised the Scottish Government in recognising the 'important role' farmers play in meeting ambitious climate and nature targets with the Bill.

"The redesign of Scotland's agricultural policy represents a massive opportunity," Mr Wilson added. 

"Agriculture management accounts for roughly 70 per cent of Scotland's land mass.

"We need policy which allows farmers to farm with nature.

"It goes without saying if we are to have any hope of meeting the Government's target of reversing declines in nature by 2030 and regenerating it by 2045, agriculture will have to play a massive part."

See also: Top tips for farmers as Storm Agnes to bring gusts of up to 75mph