Crofters ‘uncertain’ over impact of Brexit

Crofting communities have been left in a state of “unending uncertainty” by the Scottish and UK governments, the Scottish Liberal Democrats have said.

Leader Willie Rennie said crofters were being doubly squeezed by the consequences of Brexit as well as “dithering and delay” by Scottish ministers over the future shape of farm subsidies after leaving the EU.

All this, he said, while the impact of delays to common agricultural policy (CAP) payments continue to be felt in rural areas.

Speaking in advance of a two-day visit to the Highlands, Mr Rennie said crofters had got a “rough deal” and renewed calls for a second referendum on the final Brexit deal.

He said: “The farm payments saga isn’t yet sorted and Brexit casts a dark cloud over the future of their enterprises.”