Brexit tops the agenda at NFUS conference

battleby: Impact of UK’s exit from EU on Scottish farming will be main talking point at event

The impact of Brexit on Scottish agriculture will be top of the agenda at this week’s NFU Scotland (NFUS) autumn conference at Battleby.

High-profile speakers from across the Scottish political spectrum will address the key concerns on future trade agreements, agricultural policy and labour requirements.

Secretary of State for Scotland David Mundell is expected to discuss the UK Government’s negotiating position towards the UK’s exit from the EU, focusing on how the interests of Scottish farming and crofting will be best represented.

Levy board AHDB’s chief strategy officer Tom Hind is also on the panel.

The conference will also include a session with the conveners of the two Scottish parliamentary committees dedicated to scrutinising legislation relevant to the agricultural sector – Edward Mountain MSP, of the rural economy committee, and Graeme Dey MSP, of the environment, climate change and land reform committee.

Delegates will hear about the key legislation going through the Scottish Parliament in the coming months and how the agricultural industry can work with MSPs to inform and influence the process.

NFUS president Allan Bowie described the conference as a one-off opportunity to put questions to the key players and negotiators in Scottish and UK politics.

He said: “I am delighted the Secretary of State for Scotland will address delegates on the UK Government’s Brexit negotiations, at what is a time of significant uncertainty for all in our industry.

“It is vital that farmers and crofters are represented fully in this debate, and negotiators are left in no doubt that we are open for business, but only if we are provided with confidence moving forward.”

NFUS president Allan Bowie said the conference represents a vital opportunity for the farming sector in Scotland to make its voice heard by the Scottish and UK governments.