Scots ministers must have voice at Brexit table, says SL&E

Scotland’s ministers must have a seat at the Brexit table to argue for the specific interests of the country’s unique rural sector.

Speaking after the publication of its joint paper on the potential impact of EU departure on the devolved nations in the UK, rural body Scottish Land & Estates said it remains paramount that no nation becomes disadvantaged by any future arrangements.

The organisation, which represents land-based businesses, farmers and landowners across Scotland, said that, although much still remains uncertain, there is no doubt the UK must formulate a clear and fair funding policy – and for that to happen, Scotland’s rural voice must be heard loudly.

“Whilst the very nature of our exit from the EU is blurred, and is likely to remain unclear in the near future, it is certain that this is one area of policy where our domestic governments will need to develop a new framework to assist food production and other sectors such as forestry,” said David Johnstone, chairman of SL&E.

Meanwhile, south of the border the National Farmers Union has appointed a new director to lead its Brexit unit.

Nick von Westenholz will join the NFU as director of EU Exit and International Trade, with the purpose of maintaining a coordinated and constant presence in any Brexit conversations between the union and Defra.

The NFU said its new Brexit team is part of a strategy to refocus and strengthen both its government and external affairs teams in London and to continue to make an impact during any future trade negotiations on behalf of its 46,000-strong farmer membership.

NFU director general Terry Jones said the union is determined to seize any opportunity to ensure British farming has a profitable and productive future by capitalising on all new opportunities.

Mr von Westenholz joins the NFU from his current post as chief executive of the Crop Protection Association.