Young rural professionals talk Brexit issues

The prospect of farming without subsidies focused the minds of 40 young rural professionals at an event in Perth hosted by rural property specialists Savills.

The debate looked at the different tiers of subsidies available and investigated the level of hardship that would be felt by rural communities if they were discontinued.

Participants included Kate Forbes MSP and Sarah Allison, chairwoman of Scotland’s young farmers agricultural affairs committee, Lauren Cook of Lindsays solicitors in Edinburgh and Thomas Willis of Savills’ Brechin Office.

The debate considered the potential impact on Scotland’s whisky industry of a decrease in barley production and the effect on the consumer of a reduction of local food production.

Participants also considered whether larger seed and fertilizer companies would reduce their costs if growers had to farm without support, and if this saving would be passed onto the consumer.

Jonathan Willett of Savills said the purpose of the debate was for young professionals from across Scotland to network and discuss pertinent issues facing the sector.

“The topic could have been controversial, and the debate was certainly tense at times, however both sides conceded a number of points,” he said.

“Both sides agreed that while the current system was inefficient and that direct payments were an ineffective form of subsidy, they also agreed that Scotland’s farmers will continue to require some form of financial support to survive in the global economy.”

Kate Forbes MSP said: “I am concerned not only that farmers would have serious problems with cash-flow, but also that there would be serious repercussions on rural depopulation and the knock-on effect on local schools, shops and businesses.”

Sarah Allison attended the event.