Scottish Farming Leader - February 2025

LEADER S C OT T I S H

FA R M I N G

£3.50 FEB R U A

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Thank you, Martin: The President reflects

A member of

LEADER S C OT T IS H

From the Editor

FA RMIN G

Diana McGowan

NFU Scotland, Rural Centre, West Mains NFU Scotland, Ingliston, Edinburgh Rural Centre, West Mains Ingliston, EH28 8LTEH28 8LT Edinburgh 472 4000 Tel:0131 0131 472 4000 www.nfus.org.uk www.nfus.org.uk nfuscotland nfuscotland @NFUStweets @NFUStweets @nfuscotland Editor Diana McGowan Editor editor@nfus.org.uk

Diana McGowan

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OW often do you see or learn about something and think ‘I’m up for that’, but then never actually realise that positive thought/ silent commitment? Possibly too often or not at all.

In this month’s magazine, our two features cover inspiring stories The Union and highlight just how rewarding Diana McGowan 3 Editor’s welcome delivering on such thoughts can he run up to Christmas was once again a packed aff air and I be both for the individual involved 4 President’s update was delighted, if not a little relieved, to see the last issue of and others who may benefit along Scottish Farming Leader eventually land on my doorstep on 6 News Updates the way.

Christmas Eve! Apologies for the delay, even ensuring it was from the Union We’re only aprinted few weeks away from and mailed in advance I believe many copies were the Royal Show. Over caughtHighland up in the Christmas postal rush – next time I may just ask Santa to add it toofhis sleigh deliveries for an extra festive treat. the course four days, thousands Political round-up It’s not long now before the will flock to the show to compete,annual Conference, dinner and AGM 18 The Scottish Budget willexhibit, take place in Glasgow (6 and 7 February). It’s always one of the judge, organise, educate highlights of the year with plenty opportunity for debate and discussion 18 Westminster meetings and socialise. We’ll see the best of as well as socialising and networking. But there’s still so much to happen the best and the atmosphere. before werelish get there.

For example co-ordinating the tractor rallies on Among the highlights andpart away 25 January, which are of a UK-wide day of unity to remind the UK Policy & Practice fromGovernment the main show this year of ourring, call to #StopTheFamilyFarmTax. Read the political 20 Biodiversity Strategy pages 18-19 on of other will update see theon welcome return theactivities linked to this campaign. While on pages 25-26 Jonnie Hall highlights the implications of December’s WORDS Land Matching Golden Shears Sheep Shearing and The other feature looks at how 21 Scottish Scottish Government’s budget.

DIANA Woolhandling World Championships. a casual conversation during a Service fifth birthday McGOWAN, Prior to the conference, members are having the opportunity, via a Editor, Taking place at the MacRobert Christmas lunch turned into the most 23 Species management series of regional hustings events, to meet, hear from and quiz all five Scottish Theatre, the 2023 Worlds see of President rewarding and humbling biodiversity candidates standing forwill election or Vice-President.

Weexperience andFarming Leader more than compete for but asfor Generation Chair, Matthew profi led30 thecountries candidates last month anNext additional reminder of who is 25 Scottish Government the prestigious it promises oneabout of the manyOn volunteers who Budget: Some who, please title visit and pages 34-35 to learn aSteel, bit more them.

Friday February, NFUshowcase Scotland Council members will cast their votes and needed certainty & security... to be7 an action the packed of have recently delivered much we will know who the new President and Vice-Presidents are. but for how long? the art, skill and techniques required 4x4 vehicles to Ukraine to support in champion. this month’s issue, outgoing President Martin Kennedy to be a Also world the war effort.

Matthew explains his reflects on his time in office in an interview with Brooke Harwood.

Perhaps a less well known event contribution to the ‘Pickups for Peace’ See pages 28-32 along with a few images to visually share some taking place at this year’s Highland is campaign and reflects on how the Regional Activity recorded moments. the final qualifying thethe 2023 unexpected received from Finally, I wouldround like toof take opportunity to say areception very big thank 40 Think Dairy Careers Britain’s Fittest Farmer competition. thewith Ukrainians hashisimpacted you to Martin.

It’s been a privilege to work him during time as him and Initiative Vice-President President his unwaivering optimism and Taking part in thisand event for the and witness those who were involved.

41 MSP & MP Engagement conviction to delivering in the very best interests of NFU Scotland, its the first time is Kyla Graham from Finally, as we head towards members and theKyla wider agricultural During this time, rarely Kirkcudbrightshire. first spotted sector. longest day, with theI’ve hope of some 42 MSP meeting at Carfrae Farm had to chase Martin, who also sat on our Editorial Board for a spell, for the event at the Show last year and warmer weather on the horizon, content ideas or material to include, nor had to completely redraft his 45 Key Agriculture Policy while watching it thought ‘I’m for dream I hope you’re Good remembering submitted copy!

All in all, anup Editor’s scenario. luck with to dress Changes that’.your Kyla knew however she couldn’t for the weather and wear protective next adventures.

Keep uptranslocation to date 47 Beaver just enter there and to then.

Likemany any of you at sunscreen and hatand when you’re out I look forward seeing the Conference afterward with all the news on application publishing the next issue which will include the fi rst introduction from our competition, she understood you and about. The strength of the sun Facebook or follow us on Twitter President. neednewly to beelected ready for it and without even on a dull day can prove harmful 48 CalMac liaison meeting @NFUStweets knowing if she would even enjoy if exposed without protection. If you For the weekly it, she set her mind to it to finding need a new baseball cap, visit the NFU news sent to your Features out if she would. Kyla shares her Scotland website and purchase one email, please send your name and journey from that moment to the from the branded merchandise in the 28 Thank you Martin: membership number present and highlights how she’s Members’ Benefits section. info@nfus.org.uk ThetoPresident reflects benefited already in so many ways 34 AGM preview both mentally and physically, and 36 Election candidates explains about the positive impact her preparation has had on her working life.

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From the

EDITOR

Contents

“We’ll see the best of the best and relish the atmosphere”

Scottish Farming Leader • February 2025

June 2023 | 5

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From the

PRESIDENT Martin Kennedy

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Keep up to date with all the news on Facebook or follow us on @martinkennedyvp and @NFUStweets For the weekly news sent to your email, please send your name and membership number to info@nfus.org.uk

write my final Leader intro as President with mixed emotions. The last four years have flown by. It also seems like yesterday when I first represented East Central on the national LFA committee in 2009 - from then, with support and encouragement from many, I made my way through the ranks to take on the role of President. So inevitably after being at the helm of such a fantastic organisation, fighting on behalf of our members to get our voice heard, I know it will be difficult to no longer be in the driving seat. The one major plus will be having more time to help my family at home. They have put in an incredible shift over the past eight years. Without their huge support, taking on the commitment this job requires would have been impossible.

There’s no doubt that putting your head above the parapet draws criticism and it would be fair to say over these changing times I have taken on my fair share, sadly not only from some within the industry but also from certain sectors of the press who simply want to create divide to sell a story. However, there’s always a bigger picture and

4 | Scottish Farming Leader • February 2025

leadership, in my book, is having the ability to see through unfounded criticism, look forward at that bigger picture and make decisions with the

best interest of the industry being paramount. Pleasing everyone is impossible and NFU Scotland’s strength as an organisation is its ability to take a consensus forward and push whoever we are lobbying to make the correct decision, again for the wider benefi t of the industry.

That ability to take a wider view is also what maintains NFU Scotland as the lead organisation for governments and others to go to for an industry view and advice.

As a Union, we must always recognise that our membership is our biggest strength. One of my personal highlights over the years has been going round branches, regions and indeed shows, listening to what our members need to help the industry. Through our committee structures, policy direction is formed, often leading to roadshows which again puts our members at the heart of NFU Scotland.

I’ve often talked about being an eternal optimist and that will never change as selling this industry being negative gets us nowhere.

It’s been a huge honour to represent this industry as NFU Scotland President over the past four years and I would like to thank you all for your support.

I know through many personal experiences in this job that a positive attitude and dialogue, particularly with government, gets much more traction than constant moaning. We have a right to be positive about the most important industry that has ever existed so let’s keep talking it up.

It’s been a huge honour to represent this industry as NFU Scotland President over the past four years and I would like to thank you all for your support. With a strong line up of candidates for the forthcoming elections it’s clear that your Union will continue to represent you extremely well.

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VICE-PRESIDENTS’ updates Andrew Connon Vice-President (overseeing Food & Farming Policy)

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hectic few weeks in December allowed me great engagement at eight branch AGMs as far afield as Campbeltown and Thurso, and island trips to Bute and Mull. A recent trip to Toulouse for a pal’s birthday party allowed me to witness the smouldering remains of bonfires, including tractor tyres, set alight on main route roundabouts by French farmers angered by fruit and vegetable imports from Morocco and Spain. The Westminster budget has stimulated much disgust at the attitude of the Labour Government and although I can’t see tractor tyres being burnt, one thing is clear - Scotland’s farmers’ and crofters’ patience is running thin thus the Union will continue to keep the pressure to get tax proposals reversed via multiple means.

Closer to home, dialogue will continue in trying to shape a favourable and workable Agricultural support scheme.

Methane inhibitors have caused much discussion recently. The debate will

rumble on whilst the potential to reduce emissions by up to 30% may yet look more attractive than cutting stock numbers. What is absolutely clear is that producers need the costs covered.

We continue to place a big focus on the supply chain. We’ll soon have the results of the fourth Shelfwatch and our intentions survey will be unpicked

by early February both providing great evidence which will inform our lobbying efforts and be referenced when engaging with retailers as we strive for fairer returns for our members. The marketplace remains key to a long-term prosperous future and it is essential that we remain committed to supply chain engagement going forward.

to save time. It’s interesting and we will see how effective it is.

AI however doesn’t replace the value of face-to-face discussions with decision makers and stakeholders. Towards the end of last year, we held meetings with NatureScot to discuss proposals for their Biodiversity Strategy. We’re proposing ways of delivery which will involve and benefit land managers with a straightforward approach bringing many

of NatureScot’s aspirations to a positive outcome.

Land Reform continues to be a priority for us with lobbying and stakeholder meetings taking up some time. I was also paid a recent visit to the James Hutton Institute near Dundee, I was able to see firsthand some of the really impressive and interesting exploratory work going on there on behalf of the industry.

Alasdair Macnab

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Vice-President (overseeing Climate, Land & Business Policy)

ell, that’s almost two years as Vice-President at NFU Scotland under the belt.

The range and variety of work I’ve dealt with reflects the complexity and interweaving of Scottish agriculture.

The last few months has seen a real flurry of activity after the UK and Scottish budgets, from attending rallies to fielding press and radio interviews.

Radio is interesting as a live interview question can come from any angle and you definitely need to be on you the ball. That’s when the benefits of media training kick in. I highly recommend it for anyone likely to be interviewed.

NFU Scotland Committees cover a lot of work and minute taking can be time consuming. We’ve recently seen the policy team trialling the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to explore its effectiveness and assess its potential

Scottish Farming Leader • February 2025

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News FROM THE UNION

#StopTheFamilyFarmTax

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ince October, there has been a myriad of lobbying activity to urge for a reversal of taxation proposals laid out in the new Labour Government’s first budget. Activity have taken the forming of direct lobbying of MPs, petitions, tractor rallies, mass protests, banner days and has been nationwide involving members from all four UK farming Unions. Here’s a flavour of what’s coming up and what has recently taken place.

BIG BANNER DAY

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n 19 December, UK Farming Unions joined for ‘Big Banner Day’ to amplify the message that proposed changes to inheritance tax threaten the future of family farms. Led by NFU, the nationwide display of solidarity saw roadside and gate banners with the

message “Stop The Family Farm Tax”, displayed across the country.

In Scotland, the banners were located in prominent positions across every region, in order to maintain public attention and build political pressure. Here’s a photo of Martin Kennedy with a sign on the busy A9 in Highland Perthshire.

Enhanced wildfire preparedness needed

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FU Scotland is calling for an urgent, proactive and well-funded approach to wildfire management as the risk of major fire events in Scotland continues to rise. At the most recent UK Wildfire Conference in Aberdeen, attended by Highland Regional Manager Ian Wilson, global and domestic experts discussed strategies for addressing the increased risk of wildfires. Scotland has seen several major wildfire events in recent years and the conference highlighted the escalating dangers and growing 8 | Scottish Farming Leader • February 2025

threat posed by climate change, loss of livestock and changing land use.

Longer dry periods, warmer winters, and increased vegetation fuel loads are compounding the risk. Landuse changes, including large-scale rewilding projects and a reduction in the number of livestock grazing in some uplands, add further complexity to wildfire management. Speaking after the conference, Ian Wilson said: “The stark warning from experts for Scotland was ‘you haven’t seen anything yet.’ Read more on the blog page of our website. www.nfus.org.uk

Tractor Rallies

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n a show of unity and strength, all four UK farming Unions – NFU Scotland, NFU, NFU Cymru and Ulster Farmers’ Union - will participate in a nationwide day of action on Saturday 25 January.

The day’s events will continue to highlight the damage that the UK Government’s proposed changes to inheritance tax will do and the threat to the viability of family farms across the UK. It will also thank the public for its growing support in this matter.

In Scotland, every region will be holding coordinated, authorised tractor rallies on the morning of Saturday 25 January, with the region’s local politicians invited to attend, allowing them to hear first-hand the devastating impact these proposed taxation burdens will have.

While the activity taking place across all parts of the UK differs, the key unified

message is the same: Unless the UK Government halts its deeply flawed family farm tax proposals, they will damage and threaten family farms and, in turn, undermine UK food production.

President Martin Kennedy said: “This is a call to action for every member of NFU Scotland and we will be urging them, where possible, to participate in these organised rallies and show the continued strength of feeling against UK Government proposals. Using approved routes, these rallies will also present an opportunity to thank the public for their ongoing support on this issue.

“This activity is part of our wider plan to highlight the damage these tax plans will have in the lead-up to the UK Government’s Spring Statement in March 2025, where we will be demanding formal changes to its plans.

“We need the UK Government to stop; reset; reflect; and properly engage and consult on an alternative approach – one that does not have deep, unintended consequences for the future of farming.

“The planned changes to taxation are wide of the UK Government’s stated target but will, instead, hammer family farms. All UK farming Unions are totally committed to having this reversed and we will be relentless in our efforts to do so.

“Farmers and crofters are already facing unprecedented challenges in their efforts to produce food, and this ill-conceived measure is the straw that has broken the camel’s back. Enough is enough.

North East Tractor run

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n the same day as the Big Banner day (19 December) there was an astonishing turnout for the North East Region’s tractor rally with members and the wider agricultural trade sending 194 tractors from Thainstone into Aberdeen city centre to make our case to scrap the family farm tax proposed by the UK Government.

Well done to the long list of those who organised or got involved in or fielded media enquiries - their hard efforts saw an incredible response from members and supporters.

And all fuelled by bacon rolls from Marshalls Farm Shop!

Equally incredible was the volume of donations made to the local foodbank by those participating with a full trailer load of food items delivered to grateful foodbank staff.

Third ShelfWatch shows lower support for Scottish produce

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hase 3 of NFU Scotland’s ShelfWatch initiative, which scrutinises the availability of Scottish produce in all major Scottish supermarket stores, recorded a decline in Scottish-branded produce across almost all retailers.

In a disappointing set of results, Phase 3 found that the amount of Scottish own brand products dropped in every major retailer apart from Lidl.

In the combined Scottish and UK branded rankings, Co-op moved to first position. There were modest changes in the overall stocking of UK products, the largest increase was Tesco with

seven per cent. Read more in the news section of our website www.nfus.org.uk It is hoped that the results of the Fourth ShelfWatch will be available to share around the time of the Annual conference and AGM in early February.

£400 Heating Grant With many farming and crofting families worrying about the cost of heating their homes this winter, RSABI is reminding the agricultural community about its ‘Help for Heating’ grants of £400.

Rural properties can often be older and more challenging to heat and with changes to the Winter Fuel Payment alongside rising energy costs and the on-going cost-of-living crisis, many are facing mounting fi nancial pressure. The application process is straight forward, and RSABI would encourage people working in, or retired from, agriculture who are struggling with costs and spending more than 10% of their household income on heating costs to contact them on 0808 1234 555.

Scottish Farming Leader • February 2025

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News Love, positivity & resilience FROM THE UNION

10-14 ry a Febru ♥

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here is no doubt that 2024 was a challenging year for farming in Scotland and across the whole of the UK and, given the added stress farmers are currently experiencing, ensuring farmers and crofters prioritise both their physical and mental wellbeing has never been more important.

From 10-14 February, the Farm Safety Foundation (Yellow Wellies) will again run their annual ‘Mind Your Head’ campaign.

Now, in its eighth year, the charity will bring together over 300 farming organisations including NFU Scotland, RSABI, NFU Mutual and SAYFC to raise

awareness and drive change around mental health.

As this year’s campaign coincides with Valentine’s Day (Friday 14 February), there will be a focus on love, positivity and resilience. While the stigma surrounding mental health seems to be diminishing, there is still an undeniable confusion and a lot of misconceptions that surround mental illness and reaching out for help.

In these challenging times our industry can no longer afford to be silenced by stigma that portrays poor mental health as a weakness or failing.

The aim of this year’s campaign will

be to remind those living and working in farming and crofting that we may have bad days but there will always be good days so let’s encourage each other to open up, reach out and normalise conversations around how they feel and how valued they are.

Further information on how you can get involved in Mind Your Head is available at: www.yellowwellies.org

“Use Your Head. Use Your Helmet” says RSABI

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n partnership with the Farm Safety Foundation (Yellow Wellies), RSABI has launched its latest campaign, urging the wearing of helmets on quad bikes and ATVs. The six-month safety initiative was inspired by Arran farmer Callum Lindsay, who sustained major head injuries through a quadbike accident in 2023. After six months in a neck brace, Callum committed to encouraging others to always wear helmets and has shared his story as a reminder of the dangers involved in these vehicles – you can read his story in full on the RSABI website. RSABI and The Farm Safety Foundation plans to share various helmet safety content throughout the next six months of the campaign.

10 | Scottish Farming Leader • February 2025

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News FROM THE UNION

Sheering training for young farmers

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ritish Wool and the Scottish Association of Young Farmers Club (SAYFC) have been collaborating again this year to offer subsidised shearing training to YFC members.

For the seventh year in a row Young Farmers Club members affiliated to the SAYFC can take advantage of a 50% discount on British Wool Shearing Courses. The discounted offer applies to courses in machine and blade shearing.

British Wool’s two-day courses are held in all regions of the UK and cover the essentials of shearing. Attendees receive hands-on practical tuition in small groups, typically with a ratio of one instructor to four participants.

This allows attendees to develop their technique as well as receiving guidance on animal welfare, the use of shearing equipment, and staying safe in the shearing shed. The discount applies to courses for absolute beginners, intermediate, and advanced level shearers. British Wool and the SAYFC actively encourage Young Farmers to improve their technique by attending further training.

The discounted price of £110 plus VAT is exclusively available to YFC members who register before the 31 March 2025. British Wool’s courses are also available to non-members at £220 plus VAT which still represents excellent value for small group tuition.

Ally Burton the National Chair for SAYFC said “We are thankful to British Wool for once again offering our members discounts for their shearing and wool handling courses. It’s fantastic that young farmers in Scotland have the opportunity to acquire these valuable agricultural skills, which can benefit them both at home and in their future careers”.

To register your interest please contact: Penny Montgomery penny@sayfc.org or 01313332445

Average year for cereals

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s predicted by NFU Scotland’s own harvest survey, Scottish Government confirmed in December that total cereal production from the 2024 harvest was around 3.0 million tonnes. Both winter barley and wheat production fell below their fi ve-year average levels, decreasing from 2023. Spring barley had an above average year, with production reaching around 1.7 million tonnes. While it was a good year for oats yield, the area planted and total production (0.18 million tonnes) were below average.

Oilseed rape production (0.13 million tonnes) also dropped slightly below average, after a record year in 2023.

The full statistical publication is available at in the publications part of the Scottish Government website.

12 Days of celebrating Scottish Produce

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hroughout December, NFU Scotland celebrated member produce through its “12 Days of Scottish Produce” initiative. Forever encouraging the buying of local produce, the Union used each day to focus on a business that supplies festive essentials through social media posts - think Christmas trees, sprouts, barley (whisky), reindeer, butter, cheese, carrots and milk etc.

Keep tuned to our social media posts be following @nfuscotland on Instagram, @NFU Scotland on Facebook Scottish Farming Leader • February 2025

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VE Day 80: 8 May 2025

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elebrations are being planned across the country to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day and pay ’tribute’ to the farmers and Land Girls that toiled the fields to keep the Nation fed during WWII. To find out more and to register if you would like to participate visit the following website www.veday80.org.uk Registration is required before 8 April.

Please Use Your Head

Use a Helmet

For your family For your farm For your team HELPLINE: 0808 1234 555 | www.rsabi.org.uk

14 | Scottish Farming Leader • February 2025

Big Farmland Bird Count 2025 make it a family experience!

News FROM THE UNION

7-23 February

Citizen science

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armers, land managers, crofters, gamekeepers, wildlife rangers and foresters who care about wildlife conservation are once again being encouraged to take part in the annual census of wild birds on our farmland, the 2025 Big Farmland Bird Count.

Run by the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT) this annual census has been providing vital data for the past decade which has helped inform the Trust about which species are in the most trouble and how they can help them, and which are benefitting from conservation efforts.

The 2024 census saw nearly 395,000 birds spotted across 1,721 surveys UK wide. The most common counted

species were starling, woodpigeon and fieldfare. A total 140 different species were recorded and of those, 27 were red-listed.

Specifically in Scotland there were 101 counts completed with 19,387 birds counted and 88 species recorded, of which 22 were red-listed. The five most common counted species in Scotland were woodpigeon, rook, starling, chaffinch and house sparrow.

The 2025 count starts on Friday 7 February and runs for two weeks.

GWCT hopes to make this year’s count bigger and better than ever and something in which all the family can be involved - so if you are already monitoring your wild birds, or want to start doing so, why not see if you can get some help from your children, grandchildren or younger friends and family?

To help younger bird spotters get interested and involved GWCT is making available some new and exciting easyto-use guides and count sheets. These will be available on the Big Farmland Bird Count website – www.bfbc.org.uk .

As well as providing a snapshot of the bird population on UK farms each February, the BFBC aims to raise awareness of the important role that farmers, crofters and other land managers play in the conservation of farmland birds. UK farmland birds have declined by 63% since 1970 and need help if this trend is to be reversed.

The key to doing this, and increasing biodiversity, is held by the people who are responsible for land used for agriculture.

President Martin Kennedy said: “Scotland’s farmers and crofters have a fantastic story to tell on food production, lowering emissions and enhancing habitat and biodiversity. We need facts and figures to show to everyone the journey that we are on.

“Our farms and crofts are alive with nature and our stunning birdlife in Scotland is something to be celebrated.

I would encourage as many farmers and crofters as possible to participate in the count, record how many bird species you spot on farm or croft this coming February and, importantly, submit your results to GWCT. This long-running invaluable survey pulls together a vital national snapshot of the state of nation when it comes to our birds. I urge all farmers and crofters to take half-an-hour out of their busy schedules to enjoy and record the birdlife around them.”

Signing up is free and no specialist knowledge or equipment are required.

In many places, local bird and wildlife groups are working with land managers to help them do the count.

Find out how to get involved in the GWCT Big Farmland Bird Count at www.bfbc.org.uk where downloadable bird guides and other advice are also available.

Scottish Farming Leader • February 2025

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Fuelling Scotland’s Farms

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Ayrshire Tayside and Angus West of Scotland Scottish Borders

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ScottishScottish Farming Leader •Leader February 2025 | 91 17 Farming •2023 April 2024 | 91 December 2023 91 December December 2023 15 February 2024 81

Political

ROUND UP

Westminster meetings

Beatrice Morrice

Political Affairs Manager

Al Walker

Political Affairs Assistant

The Scottish Budget

S

ince the Scottish Budget announcement at the start of December, we have been continuing discussions with the Scottish Government and MSPs on the importance of agricultural funding and the need for a multiannual commitment to future funding going forward.

The Budget committed to around £680 million to farming and crofting for 2025/26 and crucial schemes such as Basic Payment Scheme, Greening, Less Favoured Area Support and Voluntary Coupled Support have all been protected.

However, given rising costs, it means a real terms decline in terms of their value. On the promised return of £46 million previously re-allocated from agricultural funding, a clear timetable has been given (£20 million in 2025/26 for capital expenditure with the remaining £26 million to come a year later). We have already met with the Cabinet Secretary for Rural Aff airs, Land Reform and Islands, Mairi Gougeon MSP to discuss the detail of how this capital funding should be spent. We look forward to continuing to work with the Scottish Government on how best to deliver capital support to help future proof our industry.

18 | Scottish Farming Leader • February 2025

N

FU Scotland’s recent meetings in London focussed on highlighting concerns about the changes to inheritance tax for agriculture. Martin Kennedy, Jonnie Hall and Beatrice Morrice met with SNP Rual Spokesperson Seamus Logan MP, a group of Scottish Conservative MPs (Shadow Scottish Secretary Andrew Bowie MP, David Mundell MP and John Lamont MP) and a Labour MP’s researcher. We also discussed trade issues with a Scotland Office official and met with the Chair Alistair Carmichael MP and Clerk of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Select Committee. Our final meeting was with the Minister for Food Security and Rural Affairs Daniel Zeichner MP at which we discussed the UK Government’s Budget decisions including inheritance tax changes, removal of ringfenced and multiannual budget for agriculture and the impact of National Insurance Contributions on farm businesses.

We also spoke about Electronic Identification and the need for the UK Government to address the requirements relating to the EU Deforestation Regulations which has been postponed by the EU.

Scottish Farming Leader • February 2025

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Policy & PRACTICE Sarah Cowie

Senior Policy Manager

Biodiversity Strategy

T

he Scottish Government has published its final Biodiversity Strategy and Delivery Plan. This is mostly unchanged from the proposals that were consulted on in 2023. Mainly, it sets out an ambition for Scotland to be Nature Positive by 2030, and to have restored and regenerated biodiversity across the country by 2045.

We engaged significantly on the proposals, both with members and with Scottish Government and NatureScot.

We are broadly supportive of the aims and objectives of the Strategy, but there are still unanswered questions around the Delivery Plan in terms of funding allocations, where responsibility lies for each action, and how it fits in with wider agricultural support.

In terms of next steps, the Scottish Government will progress the Vision through its six-year Delivery Plan and forthcoming Natural Environment Bill. Key priorities for the immediate term include scaling up restoration projects, advancing nature-based solutions, and integrating biodiversity considerations into policy frameworks.

New Framework on Natural Capital Markets

A

key part of the Biodiversity Strategy is private investment in nature. To guide this, the Scottish Government has also published a Framework for Natural Capital Markets, with the aim to attract responsible private investment into Scotland.

The framework provides guidance for investors, land managers and communities on attracting responsible private investment into peatlands, woodlands and nature restoration.

We welcome the publication of this framework, but we still have many concerns around how a natural capital market will operate. We are concerned that there is an over-reliance on private investment to meet nature and climate ambitions when there does not seem to be a demand from either potential sellers or buyers. We will continue to engage with key stakeholders as this policy area develops.

Decommissioning of the Radio Teleswitch Service You may use an RTS meter if your property:

Rhianna Montgomery Policy Manager

T

he Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) is used by around 250,000 households and businesses in Scotland to heat their properties.

Ofgem has advised that the technology to support RTS energy meters will be fully decommissioned on 30 June 2025. From 31 July 2025, RTS meters may no longer function properly, causing disruption to heating and hot water supply.

20 | Scottish Farming Leader • February 2025

• has a meter that switches between peak and off-peak tariff rates, such as Economy 7 and Economy 10, or a Total Heating Total Control (THTC) tariff; • has a meter that automatically turns on your heating or hot water; • is heated using storage heaters; • is located in a no-gas supply area (of-grid), especially in rural areas.

Energy suppliers should start to contact consumers using RTS to arrange a replacement smart meter. For those unable to install a smart meter, your

supplier should offer you an alternative solution to avoid any service disruption or detriment.

What to do if you are not able to upgrade In some instances, your supplier may not be able to offer you a smart meter at present. If this is the case, they must make sure you have a suitable meter installed, and that your service is not disrupted.

What should I do now?

In the first instance, you should contact your energy supplier to understand the options available to you.

You can also get free and impartial advice from the following; • Advice Direct Scotland – 0800 028 1456 • Home energy Scotland – www.homeenergyscotland.org or 0808 808 2282 (free)

Ahead of the new Committee year it is pertinent to reflect on the past twelve months and what is on the horizon for 2025.

Lisa Hislop

O

Livestock Policy Manager

ver the past year the Livestock and LFA Committees have continued to have a mixed remit, responding to consultations on bovine EID, BVD and sheep carcass classification. As well as engaging with the setup of the Scottish Government’s Johnes Working Group and the Livestock Genetic and Performance Improvement group. We have worked with stakeholders on sheep scab guidance, General Binding Rules and how agroforestry can be accessible and compatible with active farming and crofting businesses.

The primary focus for 2025 was around Scottish Suckler Beef Support Scheme, focusing on our key asks for the reform and ensuring members are aware of the changes and our position. We have focused on retaining the £40 million budget for the suckler herd, which will be spent in its totality.

Meaning every eligible calf will have an

Ian Davidson

T

Scottish Land Matching Service

he Scottish Land Matching Service celebrated its fifth birthday at the end of September. To see how the Service has grown over its first fi ve years, demonstrates that, despite many obstacles in the way, young people still see a future in the industry. We must continue to support the next generation through appropriate education, skills development and finding the right opportunities – whether that is through employment or developing their own business.

I have mentioned previously that

uplift in payment rates than previously, roughly +£20 per calf versus 2023 payment rates.

Looking ahead, we will continue to reiterate the importance of direct support for the livestock sector.

However, support is one element of a bigger picture related to decision making in a business. At the time of writing, we are seeing record highs in trade for both beef and sheep. The

sector has waited a long time for this however we must be realistic that this is just reflecting the soaring input costs which have become the norm. We need a consistent and fair return so that we have confidence to invest in the sector to support maintain critical mass across the full supply chain. It is important that we work collaboratively with stakeholders to encourage confidence in the wider livestock sector.

Scottish Land Matching Service fifth birthday the very welcome increase in the value of cattle and sheep through the past year can unfortunately make it more difficult for a young person to get their business started. I had the opportunity to attend a couple of sales recently where a number of cattle herds and hill sheep stocks were dispersed, and the prices certainly represented a greater risk to any young person trying to get started – even at a modest scale. There will of course be many different and valid reasons behind the decisions made to disperse but I sometimes wonder, particularly with the hill sheep stocks, if there is any thought given to the impact on community – social and economic - as

well as a loss of a very particular set of skills – particularly where the land and farms lie empty?

Going forward Scottish Land Matching Service will look to continue delivering a confidential service and advice to those providing and seeking opportunities in farming and crofting.

There is still enough ambition, enthusiasm and skill out there to overcome the many difficulties that face the industry and helping find opportunities for the next generation will continue to play an important role in that. If you think we might be able to help, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us – www.slms.scot Scottish Farming Leader • February 2025

| 21

Our philosophy is to conserve and protect our natural resources for future generations through environmental stewardship.

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Agricultural

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Industrial & Construction

|

Earth Mover

|

Forestry

Penny Middleton

Policy Manager

I

Policy species management and biodiversity

n December 2023, we challenged NatureScot on the inequity around species management and biodiversity. It has taken time, but we now have a Strategic Wildlife and Species Forum in place. The forum will be chaired by the two Ministers, Alasdair Allan MSP, Minister for Climate Action and Jim Fairlie MSP, Minister for Agriculture and Connectivity of Scotland, and will be made up of representatives from organisations representing land managers and ecologists.

The Ministers want the forum to make decisions on how we live alongside wildlife, showing a more equitable and shared approach. It will focus less on individual species, taking a more holistic approach, although principles agreed within the group should help drive the direction of those speciesspecifi c groups.

John Flanagan

Senior Policy Manager

Changing weather patterns: Changes to water management

W

ith the help of Scottish Government KTIF funding, SAOS are teaming up with the Scottish Potato Co-operative (SPC) to investigate how Scottish growers can better manage one

& PRACTICE

The group agreed two main areas of work should be: • to help direct funding towards the issues, including research into better understanding and fi nd new mitigation options, such as using new technology • to improve communication and change the narrative around the need for controls in some circumstances.

The group has been tasked with coming up with answers to the following two questions: 1. Should Government allow the control of some species to protect other wildlife species?

2. Should Government continue to pay for management of species? If not, how might we allow land managers and farmers to continue their work?

The forum agreed that the group should meet every three months, rather than every six, given the urgency around making progress.

of our most precious commodities - water.

Storing, abstracting and irrigating are all common practices and all these have a cost. With the changes to climate, growers could face a drier climate in the future. Although it wasn’t a problem in 2024, a period of water scarcity is challenging to overall potato yield, and marketable yield for high value, early salad and higher dry matter, potato varieties.

The new project is exploring the practicalities and feasibility of different water resource management practices and their costs and benefi ts: whether that be storage, technologies, or different practices. Would you be interested in being part of the project?

If so, contact david.michie@saos.coop .

Renewable Energy Directive (RED) II There continue to be compliance issues around RED II national accreditation and the operational difficulties around the lack of approval of the NUTS 2 figures. This is leading to concerns about market prices and the increase in imports to the UK. Currently, 2 million tonnes of grain enter the biofuels market and last year 97% of this was domestic grain. Without resolution, imports from approved countries will displace domestic produce. A joint letter has been sent to the Secretary of State for Transport, highlighting the concerns and we continue to lobby for a resolution to the issue.

Harvest survey draw winner Finally, congratulations to George Lammie, Dumfries and Galloway member, who was the winner of the prize draw for the annual harvest survey. Well done!

Scottish Farming Leader • February 2025

| 23

Policy & PRACTICE

Jonnie Hall

Director of Policy

Scottish Government Budget:

Some Certainty & Security… but for how long?

O

n 4 December, the Scottish Government delivered a budget that gives some security to the future of farming and crofting, but only for the year ahead.

Despite receiving an extra £3.4 billion in its block grant, taking it to the “largest real terms settlement since devolution” of some £47.7 billion in 2025/26, the Scottish Government opted for no more than a rollover of funding for the core elements of agricultural support.

The UK Government Budget on 30 October redefined agricultural funding for the devolved nations, consolidating it within each region’s broader block grant using the Barnett formula rather than maintaining separate, ring-fenced allocations.

This shift leaves agricultural support to compete with other regional priorities such as health and education, potentially impacting long-term funding and stability for farming and crofting in Scotland.

In short, the Scottish Government now has full control over agricultural spending. Effectively, not only is agricultural and rural policy completely devolved to Scotland but now so too is the funding to underpin it.

In our Scottish Budget submission, which outlined a clear case for increased investment in agriculture and rural development in Scotland, we called for

a moderate increase in rural spending given the increase in the Scottish Government’s block grant. In addition, we sought guarantees on a multiannual basis.

What we got from a farming and crofting perspective was a commitment from the Scottish Government that “We will support Scottish farmers, crofters,

£680 million has been allocated to farming and crofting for 2025/26 and that funding through crucial schemes such as Basic Payment Scheme, Greening, Less Favoured Area Support and Voluntary Coupled Support has all been protected and rolled over.

However, given rising costs, that means a real terms decline in terms of their value.

Despite receiving an extra £3.4 billion in its block grant, taking it to the “largest real terms settlement since devolution” of some £47.7 billion in 2025/26, the Scottish Government opted for no more than a rollover of funding for the core elements of agricultural support. land managers and rural communities by providing over £660 million in support, including maintaining our direct payments to the sector and investing in transforming support for farming and food production in Scotland. We will provide a new £20 million transformation scheme to support this work”.

The Scottish Government Budget announcement suggests around

On the promised return of £46 million previously deferred from agricultural funding, a clear timetable has been given: £20 million is to return in 2025/26 for capital expenditure with the remaining £26 million to come a year later. We are now in direct discussions with the Scottish Government to map out the detail of how this capital funding should be spent.

Scottish Farming Leader • February 2025

| 25

Policy & PRACTICE

There can be no doubt that farmers and crofters deserved a budget that recognised their indispensable role in Scotland’s rural and national prosperity.

However, while falling short on our justified budgetary asks, we have received a budget that, if approved, provides guarantees that key support schemes will be delivered with existing budgets intact – no mean feat of intense activity by your Union.

As these key elements of direct support evolve into the new structure of support from 2026 onwards, with new conditions attached from 2025, a priority objective for us was to secure the continuity of direct support funding.

Securing £424 million for the BPS and Greening and almost £50 million for the Scottish Suckler Beef Support Schemes and the Scottish Upland Sheep Support Scheme, as well as continuation of the £65.5 million LFASS budget, provides the financial underpinning that Scottish agriculture remains all too reliant on as we approach the 2025/26 financial year.

A significant concern is that there is no more ring-fenced funding and no more multi-annual commitment. We will be drawn into an annual battle over future support. Farms and crofts are in it for the long haul and

26 | Scottish Farming Leader • February 2025

must make long-term decisions – our sector deserves a funding package that allows planning for the future.

It’s also disappointing that there has been no real terms increase in funding for farming and crofting and Scottish agriculture has not benefitted from the eight percent increase in the block grant received by the Scottish Government. Given the real terms declines in direct support over recent years, if farms and crofts are being tasked to deliver more in the public interest they cannot do it with less financial backing.

We explicitly called for the return of the outstanding £46 million. As a result, £20 million has been included as capital spend under ‘Agricultural Transformation’ in the 2025/26 Budget, and “the remainder of these savings (£26 million) will be returned as capital funding in 2026-27”.

This real success is a direct result of intense engagement with the Scottish Government.

For the avoidance of doubt, this funding was always from the Scottish Government’s own resources – it was never ‘Bew funding’ as that was part of the £620 million Scotland used to get from the UK Treasury and which was always spent.

We’ve always made it clear that this funding should be delivered as ‘capital expenditure’ to enable agricultural businesses to build resilience, add value and adapt to change.

It is vital that capital funding is also

returned to existing schemes, such as the New Entrant and Young Farmer capital grant schemes, as well as the Food Processing, Marketing and Cooperation (FPMC) Scheme to enable much needed investment beyond the farmgate and into the supply chain.

We also want to work with the Scottish Government on developing capital funding options for water resources management on farms and the practical rollout of on-farm green energy to accelerate the decarbonisation of agricultural machinery, etc.

We didn’t get all we wanted from the Scottish Budget, but we got close to it.

We certainly secured the core funding for direct support. That must never be taken for granted even if it remains so critical to the viability of farming and crofting. And we’ve ensured the return of the outstanding £46 million.

Works starts now on making the unequivocal case for the funding farming and crofting needs for 2026/27 and beyond if it is to deliver all that is being asked from it.

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Thank you Martin

: in t r a M , u o y k n a Th s t c le f e r t n e id s e r P The

words by

Brooke Harwood

T

Communications Assistant

hree years served as Less Favoured Areas Committee Chair, four years as NFU Scotland’s Vice-President and now, Martin Kennedy has added four years as President to an outstanding resume.

It’s a goodbye Martin found bittersweet as he prepared to pass the baton to his soon-to-be-elected successor. In line with the Union’s constitution, a President cannot serve more than two consecutive terms at two years per term.

With his maximum of four years due to be completed in February, Martin must stand down at the Union’s AGM. Ahead of this, I had the pleasure of reflecting on presidency with the man himself and ask what’s next for Martin Kennedy?

28 | Scottish Farming Leader • February 2025

Stepping Down

“It’s going to be strange; I think. It’s been so full on, particularly in the last few years. It’s going to be a different world and a different time,” he said with optimism for his future.

Martin was elected as Union President in February 2021 after serving as Vice-President since 2017. In the years following, he led the industry with vigour, from championing Scottish produce in global markets to engaging with grassroot members. His constantly packed diary would overcome others, but his optimism and home support system were his saviour.

“This is a full-time job so you’re very rarely at home. I couldn’t have done this without the support of my family, my wife and the girls have done a huge shift.”

As Martin took office, his wife Jane and three daughters: Jillian, Katrina and Yvonne, learned to adapt to his increased workload and frequent absence. He said it was detrimental to discuss role expectations with his family prior to running for election.

“Was presidency what you expected?”

I asked.

“I don’t think you expect the commitment to be so big, but you just have to get on with it.

“I think from a member’s perspective, they pick up on pretty quick if you’re not committed and that’s applicable to VicePresident as well. You’re dealing with politicians, you are dealing with the press, you are dealing with member views and ultimately the buck stops with you. I don’t think you really recognise this until you’re actually in the role.

“At any given time, there’s hundreds of things NFU Scotland has to deal with. It’s so full on that stepping back from it will probably be quite challenging.”

Martin and Jane planned to take a well-earned holiday soon after the Union’s AGM on February 6 and 7.

Perhaps to the delight to his middle daughter Katrina, who took charge of the Kennedy farm throughout her dad’s presidency, Martin has ensured he will allow the next generation to maintain the lead, once he returns home full-time.

Perthshire to Parliament

During his presidency, Martin worked with a total of three Union VicePresidents, two Union CEOs, three First Ministers, fi ve Defra Ministers and four Prime Ministers. I wanted to know how he communicated member cares and concerns to the nation’s top politicians?

decisions, most recently seen in the UK Budget, “but we’ll not go down that road,” he added.

As with many public-facing roles, achieving the top job in NFU Scotland shot Martin to the firing line for criticism.

Not only from the press, public or

I suppose politicians can be frustrating.

I remember conversations with Boris Johnson where I just felt, ‘you don’t get this’. Liz Truss was another one when it came to the trade deal negotiations after Brexit where I found it particularly challenging.

“I think everybody’s surprises you in this job.

“I suppose politicians can be frustrating. I remember conversations with Boris Johnson where I just felt, ‘you don’t get this’. Liz Truss was another one when it came to the trade deal negotiations after Brexit where I found it particularly challenging.”

The ‘eternal optimist’, he knew the value in conveying Scotland’s farmers and crofters voices to policymakers who might otherwise make ill-informed

politicians, but also from his peers and Union members.

“Any time you put your head above the parapet, it’s going to get shot down.”

Martin said.

“Mine’s been shot down plenty but I tend to bounce back up quickly.”

Mr Kennedy encouraged himself to rise above negativity when he knew his lead was in the interest of all Scottish farmers and crofters: “as long as the vast majority of our members understand and the reasons why we’re taking the direction of travel then it’s all good,” he added.

Scottish Farming Leader • February 2025

| 29

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Thank you Martin

The world’s stage

Shortly after Martin took presidency, Glasgow welcomed world leaders to COP26. Never before had Scotland been at such a forefront of climate discussions than during these two weeks. As the first Union President to represent the host nation’s farmers and crofters, a newlyelected Martin undoubtedly felt the pressure: “It was in stark contrast of what I thought it was going to be,” he said.

“One day in particular that I’ll never, ever forget, was when I was welcoming people to this horrible, wet, dreich day in Glasgow, and the chap from Kenya that was on the panel with me said, ‘no, wait a minute, you don’t know how lucky you are, this is a fantastic day.’

“It made me think that we need to take a far wider perspective of what’s happening globally just now and look at the advantages we have.”

Seeing Scotland through a global lens inspired Martin to promote what the agricultural industry has on offer particularly during trade negotiations following the UK’s exit from the European Union.

“I don’t think there’s any question that we are already the envy of many parts of the world, but we could still grow and actually boost that up another level.

What we have in Scotland is worldleading and we’ve got the right to be shouting that from the top of the tree.”

He added.

Scottish Farming Leader • February 2025

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Thank you Martin

Member Questions

Legacy

Since 2021, NFU Scotland has celebrated a number of successes with Martin at the helm. Most recently, the Union embarked on a partnership with the Scottish Association of Young Farmers Clubs aimed at encouraging more young people to engage with NFU Scotland.

“The next generation is absolutely vital to this industry,” Martin said in appreciation of his own daughters.

“I’m quite upbeat and positive, maybe to my detriment, and I try and talk the industry up as much as I can because if we don’t, who’s going to want to come into the industry?”, he added.

When I sat down with him, Martin only had two months to go in his presidency.

However, that didn’t stop him from setting big plans in motion ahead of February.

“It would be fantastic to see in the next few months, the introduction of Bovine EID [Electronic Identification].

We’ve been talking about it for twenty years, so it’d be great to get that over the line.

“It’d also be great to get something about the labelling done but it never stops, there’s always something coming at us.”

Martin’s passion and commitment for Scottish Agriculture will forever be valued as his presidential legacy. His optimism is infectious and has been the drive for NFU Scotland throughout the past four years.

“I think it’s the best job in the world.” he said upon reflection. “It’s been quite a journey but a massive honour.”

32 | Scottish Farming Leader • February 2025

What has been your proudest moment as NFU Scotland President?

“The proudest moment was getting elected because it’s a huge responsibility but a massive honour.

In terms of getting things over the line, I’d like to think I’ve had some influence over the budget direction and the policy direction on what that budget’s going to have to do.

“I’d also like to think I’ve helped raise the profile of Scottish Agriculture and what Scottish Agriculture does in a positive manner. So, I don’t think I have just one proudest moment.”

What advice would you pass on to the next NFU Scotland President?

“Make sure you listen to your brief and be yourself. When you’re delivering a speech on a platform, that needs to be yours.”

What have you enjoyed most?

“Debating with politicians, putting our point forward and putting them back in their seat.

“I remember one time in particular when I was on Newsnight with Emily Maitlis and [Lord] Daniel Hannan. I really stuck to my guns there and I came away thinking, ‘yeah I nailed that’.”

What is the best single malt?

“Without doubt, Aberfeldy 12-year-old.”

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| 33

NFUS Conference

NFUS Conference T he Union’s national conference, AGM and annual dinner will take place at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Glasgow, G2 8DL on Thursday 6 and Friday 7 February 2025 attracting members from across the country and key stakeholders. Sponsored by APB and M&S Food.

Now a quarter of the way into the Century, the Union will use the event to focus on what the future could for Scottish agriculture and how can we grasp the opportunities for growth.

In what will be a packed couple of days, delegates on day one will be able to attend the AGM, listen to the outgoing President Martin Kennedy’s ‘state of the Union’ address, and take part in themed sessions with keynote speakers and discussion. The annual dinner of fine Scottish fayre will be preceded by a drinks reception sponsored by Diageo. Delegates will also enjoy an excellent buffet lunch.

Lots of time debate, discuss and socialise.

On day two of the conference, the elections of the new President and Vice-Presidents will take place. In addition, First Minister John Swinney MP will give his first keynote speech to the NFUS conference delegates.

For more details about how to book, the programme and conference information visit www.nfus.org.uk.

Sponsored by

Speakers at the conference include: First Minister of Scotland, John Swinney MSP. Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Scotland, Kirsty McNeill MP. Mr Colin Campbell, James Hutton Institute CEO. Mr Mark Suthern, Commissioner on the recent Farm Assurance Review and former Director of Agriculture at Barclays.

Mr Max Schulman, a Finnish farmer and Copa-Cogeca Chairman of Cereals and Oilseeds Working Group.

Mr George Eustice, Former Secretary of State at Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA).

Natalie Smith, Head of Sustainable Agriculture & Fisheries, Tesco plc.

We’re also was delighted that Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Land Reform and Islands, Mairi Gougeon MSP and Minister for Agriculture and Connectivity Jim Fairlie MSP, have also confirmed their attendance at the conference. The ministers will accompany the First Minister as he makes his key note address and will be available for subsequent audience questions.

Outgoing President Martin Kennedy and CEO John Davidson will also deliver key Union updates in their own individual addresses to delegates.

34 | Scottish Farming Leader • February 2025

Scottish Farming Leader • February 2025

| 35

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Hustings done – now for elections

NFUS Conference

O

n Friday 7 February, NFU Scotland’s Council members will elect a new President, who will succeed outgoing Martin Kennedy who has held office for four years, the maximum term allowed under the Union’s constitution. At this time the Council will also elect two Vice-Presidents.

Throughout January our five candidates have been out and about across the regions attending husting events to canvas for Council votes and share their thoughts with members and answer questions. Prior to this each shared a short explanation as to why they would be ideal for the role.

Bios of all candidates which provide more information can be found on the news page of our website (release issued 10 December) and in last month’s issue of Scottish Farming Leader.

Listed in alphabetical order

Standing for: President

Standing for: President

North Quilquox, Ythanbank, Ellon, Aberdeenshire

Kildun, Dingwall, Ross-shire

Andrew Connon

It would be a great honour and privilege should I be appointed President, NFU Scotland.

Having come up through the Branch structure, to region, then to main Board and eventually Vice-President (VP), I feel I can relate to our diverse membership of farmers and crofters.

My wide experience of practical farming across sectors combined with a commercial career of over 30 years has already proven so relevant as a VP and can only add to my skill set as President.

Having travelled across every region since 2021, I have demonstrated my focus on member engagement in all regions and across all sectors, whilst my dialogue and relationship building with members, processors, retailers, maltsters, distillers, other industry bodies, politicians and civil servants gives me strong contacts to build on should I be elected.

As Vice-President, I have demonstrated that I can constructively engage, listen and also challenge when needed, as I strongly believe we need to put our point across firmly and stand up for our members.

We are in times of incredible change in Agriculture, but we have an industry to believe in and be proud of and thus I relish the challenge of leading our fantastic industry at this time.

Alasdair Macnab As a working farmer I have wide knowledge and experience of the operational demands and the many other characteristics of Scottish and GB farming and crofting industry, marketing and food processing sectors. In addition, I have acquired and developed key skills in private business, government and charity work, including leadership, representation, negotiation, problem solving, mentoring, working with others, information management and developing relationships with stakeholders. These skills gained me a reputation for delivery to time, quality and budget, setting up and leading teams which achieve and deliver.

I am a forward looking, original thinker, taking novel approaches to subjects, able to look outside the box, stimulating thinking and discussion and actively seeking the views of others. Disciplined and structured in my approach to issues, I am prepared to challenge perceptions seeking to support individuals and the Union to achieve their potential and outcomes.

As Vice-President, I successfully negotiated positive outcomes on a number of issues that will benefit members’ future development of their businesses.

If elected, I undertake to build on the lobbying and partnership successes of previous Presidents, and work to strengthen our position as the go-to organisation that represents farmers, crofters, land managers and other stakeholder members.

Scottish Farming Leader • February 2025

| 37

NFUS Conference

Standing for: Vice-President

Standing for: Vice-President

West Knockenbaird, Insch, Aberdeenshire

Glenbarr Farms, by Tarbert, Argyll

Michael Davis

I

have been involved in Agriculture all my working life and understand first-hand the challenges Farming, Crofting and the wider rural community is facing.

I respect NFU Scotland, its staff and officials but feel now is the time for an injection of new blood and thinking.

NFU Scotland must listen to, and utilise the skills of, its members, whilst developing a harder edge to fight for sustainable returns for ‘Hardworking Farmers and Crofters’ and the retention of direct support for the industry. I believe I have the time, experience and drive to help NFU Scotland modernise and achieve this.

I also think it is essential that any such hardening of attitude be accompanied by the development of an education programme to ensure that the public, politicians and regulators have a far better understanding of how the industry works.

I am an approachable, pragmatic, practical, effective communicator who is tough and resilient.

My farming and life experience has taught me to be financially astute, analytical, principled and experienced in committee working.

I now have the time, skills and financial stability to work tirelessly for every member of NFU Scotland to ensure longterm sustainability of the industry and the way of life we love.

Duncan Macalister

I

would welcome the opportunity to be part of the team that will allow Scotland’s farmers to flourish and have an industry we can be proud of. The membership-led organisation of NFU Scotland aligns with my values and I am keen to motivate members to have a voice in all levels of the Union.

Agriculture has one of the highest mortality rates within the Scottish workforce. Ongoing financial instability and pressure increase this risk. I care passionately that we must all have safe, sustainable and profitable agricultural businesses. In this role, I would plan to raise safety awareness within the sector and continue lobbying Scottish Government to provide stable funding to alleviate this challenge.

Having farmed through BSE, FDM and BVD outbreaks, I understand the reality and challenges for members. In my Monitor Farm role, I was able to reflect on innovation within agriculture and communicate this to local stakeholders. I would bring this experience and interpersonal skills to the Vice-President role.

Having been part of the NFU Scotland Board for the last five years, I have direct experience working alongside Board members and the Presidential and Policy teams.

I thus feel equipped to contribute my leadership experiences to this role.

Standing for: Vice-President

Robert Neill

Upper Nisbet Farm, Jedburgh, Scottish Borders As a third-generation farmer with experience working in various sectors of the agricultural industry and having taken advice from many people along my farming journey, I would like to use this knowledge to give something back to the industry. I am passionate and positive about the future of Agriculture in Scotland, and I would relish the opportunity to contribute towards shaping the future of the industry for the next generation, to enable them to have a bright and profitable future.

38 | Scottish Farming Leader • February 2025

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Come say hello!

NFU Scotland Conference 2025 There’s plenty on the agenda at the NFUS conference scheduled for Thursday 6 & Friday 7 February 2025 in Glasgow.

If you are attending the event, come speak to Peatland ACTION in the exhibition space between sessions to learn more about current funding and support for peatland restoration.

Scottish Farming Leader • February 2025

| 39

Regional ACTIVITY AYRSHIRE

REGIONAL MANAGER

Holly Fitsimmons 07775 838 926 holly.fitzsimmons @nfus.org.uk

REGIONAL MANAGER

Mhairi Dawson

REGIONAL MANAGER

Sheena Foster

Welcome back Holly!

Earlier this month, we handed back Ayrshire’s reins into Holly’s capable hands. We would just like to thank everyone in the Ayrshire region for their help, support and general good craic throughout 2024, it was a pleasure working with you and getting to know many of you better.

Think Dairy Careers Initiative As part of the Digital Dairy Chain (DDC), the Think Dairy Careers Initiative aims to help dairy farms address the issue of labour and skills shortage by transforming how the dairy sector workforce of tomorrow is attracted and retained and is being rolled out across the three Ayrshires.

Think Dairy Careers is promoting the variety of dairy career opportunities to young people and those with transferrable skills by offering work experience from school to university level students. DDC is asking dairy farmers to get in touch if they want to offer work experience and or for more information. Please contact Lynne via lynne.somerville@uws.ac.uk or on 07580848640

National Park meeting – The Coo Shed Ayrshire members had the opportunity to express their opinions on the proposed national park to representative of NatureScot during a panel night in November at The Coo Shed. Thank you to everyone who contributed.

National Park consultation deadline 14 February Please do not forget that the deadline to complete NatureScot’s consultation on the proposed national park for Galloway and Ayrshire is Friday 14 February. If you haven’t already, please do fill it in. The consultation can be found at: https://newnationalparkgalloway.commonplace.is/en-GB/ proposals/consultation-surveys/step1.

ORKNEY REGIONAL POLICY ADVISOR

John Laughton 01856 872 048 john_laughton @nfus.org.uk

Christmas Events

D

espite the doom and gloom created by the damaging Labour budget at the end of October and the uncertainty and anxiety this has caused to the industry, the Orkney farming community put these issues to one side to not only celebrate Christmas but also raise

40 | Scottish Farming Leader • February 2025

funds for several very worthy charities with several Festive events which are now embedded in the Orkney farming calendar.

Firstly, the second ‘Carols in the Mart’ was held at Orkney Auction Mart before Christmas with an audience of 170 enjoying an afternoon of musical entertainment and some very much welcome hot food. A total of £2000 was raised to support both RSABI and the Scottish Charity Air ambulance Secondly, the fourth ‘Orkney Tractor run’ was held in between Christmas and New Year. The event continues to go from strength to strength with 151 participating in the run this year. The convoy took its familiar route through the streets and roads of Kirkwall and St Ola. At the time of penning this, over £17,000

Photo: Alan Flett

has been raised for Orkney Prostrate Awareness and Orkney Kidney Patient Association. A staggering £140,000 has been raised for many worthwhile causes over the past 4 years which demonstrates the backing the Orkney community as a whole gives to this event.

FORTH & CLYDE REGIONAL MANAGER

Sheena Foster 07789 796 582 sheena.foster @nfus.org.uk

Branch AGMs

W

ell, what a month December was for branch AGMs keeping Regional Chair, Mark Donald, myself, and the Group Secretaries busy busy!!

Thank you and well done must go to those who have taken on new roles within your branches and a huge thank you to those who have stood down from their posts - we greatly appreciate all your time and contributions.

MSP and MP Engagement

M

embers have been busy writing to their local MSP and MP’s and attending the Rally at Holyrood.

There have also been various engagement sessions such as MP Chris Kane meeting with Regional Chair and Vice-Chair, Mark Donald and Rona Nicolson, alongside David Bryce for a post budget chat and Labour MSP Jackie Baillie attending the Dumbarton and Kilpatrick Branch AGM where IHT, National Insurance and economic pressures the key topics of discussion.

Corscaplie has the Best Silage in Forth Valley

T

he Sydney Platfoot Trophy was presented at the recent branch AGM to the best silage in Forth Valley. The trophy, dating back to 1957, is awarded each year to different farm produce each year as decided at previous AGM. There were nine entries this year, judged by Kirk Marshall from Galloway & MacLeod, Kirk visited the farms to complete a visual inspection and took away samples for analysis to base his decision on both. Kirk commented “not an easy one to judge with one dairy pit silage, six beef cow bale silages and two haylage bales in the competition. I have tried to include each category in the results which are:1st

Willie Mitchell, Corscaplie

2nd Murray Lyle, Mid Cambushinnie 3rd Andrew Thomson, South Carse of Coldoch.”

Scottish Farming Leader • February 2025

| 41

Regional ACTIVITY LOTHIAN AND BORDERS

REGIONAL MANAGER

Lindsay Brown

07780 441 750 lindsay.brown@nfus.org.uk

Branch AGMs MSP meeting at Carfrae Farm

I

n early December we had a very productive meeting with Paul McLennan MSP. As this meeting was post the Scottish Budget, he was left in no doubt about the mood of the region’s farmers and how Scottish

Peebles

Branch chair Andrew Adamson welcomed members to the Peebles Hydo for a super evening. It was a very sociable and after a delicious meal, John Davidson CEO was invited to the fl oor to give his refl ections of where the sector is and what NFU Scotland is doing to secure a positive outcome for Scottish Agriculture’s future.

Bathgate & West Calder

Following the business of the AGM, Lisa Hislop and Rhianna Montgomery gave excellent updates on the work of the Livestock/LFA and the L&T Committees. Graeme Paul remains your branch chair with Jamie Smart taking on the ViceChair role.

Berwickshire

Andrew Hodge branch chair welcomed members to the AGM and Dinner which was held at the Duns Golf club. As speaker for the night, John Davidson CEO attended to give an update and answer questions on the work going on by NFU Scotland.

42 | Scottish Farming Leader • February 2025

Roadshow

There was an amazing turnout at Carfraemill to hear from Martin Kenndy and Jonnie Hall about what we know and hope for from Scottish Government and the future funding.

Parliament had the opportunity to get things right and deliver a positive outcome for the local and Scottish rural and wider economy. We were kindly hosted by Trudi Cueto at Carfrae Farm in their fantastic meeting space.

DUMFRIES & GALLOWAY

Political engagement

D

umfries and Galloway region did a lot of political engagement in 2024, from local councillors to MPs and from all parties. Our last meeting of the year saw Colin Smyth MSP join some members of Dumfries branch and Tarff Valley, again to discuss the impact of the budget on grassroots agriculture and the wider D&G rural supply chain economy. Members felt the meeting was constructive and Colin was left in no doubt of our thought on many of the related issues.

REGIONAL MANAGER

Mhairi Dawson 07718 425 053 mhairi.dawson @nfus.org.uk

AGM season concludes

I

n December, all four branches held their AGMs. Wigtown, Stewartry and Dumfries had presentations focusing on the UK budget which stimulated some great, open discussions between the members and guest speakers. We will be organising a Regional event to discuss the topic in more detail so don’t worry if you missed out this time. Langholm branch welcomed Jonnie Hall who shared all

about his life and career in Scottish, British and European agriculture.

Following the branch AGMs in January, we held our Regional AGM on 16 January before the hustings. On behalf of myself and the region, I would like to thank those who have stepped down from committee and regional posts. Your hard work and contributions have been appreciated.

I would also like to welcome our new

elected members.

If you are keen to get involved, please do get in touch. We now look forward to the National AGM on 7 February when we will find out who are new President and Vice-Presidents are.

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| 43

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Regional ACTIVITY

s e g n a h C y c li o P re u lt u c ri g A y e K SHETLAND REGIONAL POLICY ADVISOR

Lee Smith

M

07554 741 030 lee.smith@nfus.org.uk

artin and Jonnie’s Policy Roadshow event took place back in December, members were informed of key Agriculture Policy changes and how this would affect the crofters and farmers in Shetland. Whilst providing an informative presentation and discussion from Martin and Jonnie, one of the biggest questions posed

on the night was about support for smallholders. Assistance to support smaller crofts and holdings is something the Union continues to lobby for.

The policy changes are daunting and worrying for crofters and farmers across the Island. Shetland members

are working the land, supporting the community and contributing to a fantastic local food industry. Most work a full or part-time job to support the croft because it does not fully support itself. Often working long hours over and above their day jobs to ensure the croft runs smoothly and their animals’ wellbeing is provided for. Members feel the thought of having to meet the requirements of Tier 1 added stress and strain, and that there is an uncertainty to the future of crofting in Shetland.

To assist crofters and farmers with the policy changes there is a variety of help from various local consultants and the Shetland Vets. Local agricultural consultants have made Animal Health Plan templates that can be self-completed or completed by your local consultant. These templates compliment the ‘Whole Farm Plan’ requirements for 2025. If you would like more information on these please contact the Shetland Vets of your local consultant for more information.

Scottish Farming Leader • February 2025

| 45

Regional ACTIVITY NORTH EAST REGIONAL MANAGER

Lorna Paterson

07786 860 453 lorna.paterson@nfus.org.uk

AGM’s O

ur Group Secretaries and Branch Chairs have enjoyed the recent and hugely successful AGM’s. I must say that I am extremely proud of our Secretaries and Chairs for all trying really hard to invite great speakers and ensure the creation of fantastic atmospheres at their respective meetings. Well done to everyone for all your efforts.

CHANGES: Turriff Branch saw Jason Lancaster become Chair – taking over from Iain Taylor. Morven Sivewright remains in her role as Vice-Chair. Iain was presented with a ‘thank you’ gift by Group Secretary, Rosslyn Reid.

Central Branch also had a change at the top, with Scott Campbell taking over from Murray Cooper. Murray and Secretary Sarah Law chose great speakers in Craig and Claire Grant for their AGM, ensuring Murray’s final event was a super smash hit with participating members.

Huntly-Insch’s Chair, Russell Rennie stepped back and Vice-Chair, Graeme Miller took up the top role, with Peter Law moving into Vice-Chair position. Russell and Secretary Rosslyn also chose a fantastic guest speaker in Haley Bourna from STV for their after-dinner speaker.

Carols in the Mart

Members enjoyed ‘Carols in the Huntly Mart’ thanks to the generosity United Auctions as well as sponsorship from Farmlay (Strichen); David & Val Smith (Auchnagatt); Patrick Sleigh (Oldmeldrum) and NFU Mutual Offices at Keith and Turriff.

Members enjoyed carol singing accompanied by Jan Guild on the keyboard followed by fabulous stovies, beetroot and oatcakes cooked by Fiona Forest at Huntly Cafe. Men United’s Sandy Garvock reminded everyone of the importance of mental wellbeing and looking out for neighbours and loved ones over the Festive Season. Raffle donations were gratefully received and supported by participants, raising over £1000 for Men United and SAMH. 46 | Scottish Farming Leader • February 2025

Banffshire‘s David Greer handed over the Chair role to Gordon Mckilligan and Philip Strathdee took up the mantle as new Vice-Chair.

Buchan Branch remains in the same safe hands as 2024, with Bruce Irvine as Chair and Iain Chapman as Vice-Chair. The atmosphere at this AGM was incredibly upbeat and so pleasing to be part of. Well done to all involved.

Chairs and Vice-Chairs of Branches at Aberdeen, New Deer, Dee Don, Stonehaven and Laurencekirk all remain unchanged for 2025.

Davie Smith appreciated gifts Davie Smith received a gift from Group Secretaries Richard Thompson and Rosslyn Reid as a mark of respect for being such a Branch and Regional stalwart. He also received a NFUS baseball cap from Head Office’s Diane Burnside who spotted photos of Davie at the Holyrood Rally wearing one of his non-NFUS branded cap collection.

She arranged to send him a new cap to Davie so he could continue his great NFUS promotional work wearing it instead.

HIGHLAND

REGIONAL MANAGER

Ian Wilson 07775 915 988 ian.wilson @nfus.org.uk

Beaver translocation application

W

e start 2025 with a beaver translocation application now being live for the proposed release by Forest and Land Scotland (FLS) and Trees for Life at Loch Beinn a Mheadhoic in GlenAffric. Any member in the area that is against this translocation should write to NatureScot noting their concerns for their business but also any failure you feel that FLS has done in the process of engaging with farmers, crofter and local residents and not reflecting their views properly in their application?

This application comes against a lot of objections from farmers and crofters in the area and further downstream through Strathglass where there are concerns over the movement of beavers into areas

of productive farmland. These concerns have been, by in large, ignored or dismissed as not mattering. The use of mitigation to reduce the potential damage is something that the ‘pro’ camp seems to have hidden. On this subject, we have great concern that “experts” seem

to believe that the current mitigations available can be affective and preemptive of damage neither of which are right. Does this come through rose-tinted glasses, mistruth or incompetence the jury is still out on.

I was part of a group from the Cairngorms that headed to Perthshire to see the reality of living with beavers - flooding land and production losses of high value crops. It’s little wonder the Cairngorm National Park were reluctant to come and see the reality. Those attending were left in doubt the potential damage that comes with these animals.

Beavers are just one of a few species (badgers, sea eagles, geese, ravens, gulls) that are causing real damage not only to farming and crofting but to the challenged wildlife, biodiversity and wider natural habitat that are being destroyed by “single issue specialists” who’s blinkered views and actions are having on our wonderful countryside. Hopefully this will be the year they open their eyes and see the damage that is happening but don’t hold your breath.

On the local branch fronts, most branch chairs have been returned to office with only Caithness branch electing a new chair in Stephen Sutherland who thanked out going chair Arnott Coghill for his term in office and his endless work for the betterment of farming and crofting in Caithness and beyond.

As always anything that you think NFU Scotland can be of assistance to you please get in touch.

Scottish Farming Leader • February 2025

| 47

Regional ACTIVITY ARGYLL AND ISLANDS REGIONAL MANAGER

Lucy Sumsion

N

NFU Scotland & CalMac liaison meeting

07787 434 104 lucy.sumsion@nfus.org.uk

FU Scotland members from the islands of Arran, Bute, Islay and Tiree along with, Group Secretary Euan Warnock and Regional Manager Lucy Sumsion met with senior CalMac managers at the end of 2024. The Minister for Agriculture and Connectivity, Jim Fairlie MSP also attended the meeting along with Duncan Mackison, the newly appointed CalMac CEO. The Union had written to the Minister in October 2024 highlighting several concerns that we had relating to the booking system (booking livestock trailers in particular), resilience of the fleet, capacity and tonnage issues, winter timetables and engagement with Transport Scotland. The meeting was a good opportunity to discuss these issues and others in greater detail and identify some solutions going forward.

It was agreed to reinstate our regular NFU Scotland/CalMac liaison meetings.

Importantly Duncan Mackison also gave a commitment to a joint meeting with CalMac, CMAL and Transport Scotland to specifically discuss the needs of the agricultural industry.

Following a rise in livestock attacks on the islands during 2024, CalMac agreed to support us with our Livestock Attacks campaign in 2025. We will provide suitable campaign material for CalMac to display on their ferries. In addition, they will help us to promote responsible dog ownership

via their social media channels. Look out for the campaign later in 2025!

Through our continuing engagement with CalMac, Transport Scotland and CMAL and our involvement in the HITRANS Argyll, Lochaber, Skye and Small Isles and the Clyde, Kintyre, and Islands Ferry Stakeholder Groups, we will continue to represent our island members and businesses, who rely on these lifeline ferry services. If any member has a ferry-related issue that they would like to highlight please contact your local Group Secretary or myself.

Message from Robert Bell - East Central Chair.

EAST CENTRAL REGIONAL MANAGER

Kate Maitland

H

07919 001 23 kate.maitland@nfus.org.uk

appy New Year!! Last year was a year we probably all want to forget for a huge list of reasons be it weather related or political decisions. On the latter this is where my positivity has to start, I’m hoping we are now starting to see headway on the IHT situation Being farmers we are very resilient and used to long-hauls so I’m sure we can get a result more in our favour with lots of lobbying from all concerned.

The national conference and Presidential elections are nearly upon us.

At this point I would like to thank Martin Kennedy for an outstanding shift during his four years as President. Martin, your ability has been unbelievable. We have 48 | Scottish Farming Leader • February 2025

some very able Presidential and VicePresidential candidates looking to take on the challenge. I look forward to working with you.

On a more regional level I would like to see more opportunities and support for our next generations coming up behind us. There are so many exceptionally talented young people in agriculture and they deserve every opportunity they can be given.

The region has seven very able branches, during this year I’d like to see them grow stronger and have a variety of different types of meetings. We will adapt the format of meetings which will hopefully attract some non-members and younger people to let them see all the hard work that goes on inside the organisation. This I am positive can strengthen our position as guardians of the countryside.

Increased communication is high on my list of actions 2025. In addition to receiving Union news, I’d encourage you all to join branch WhatsApp groups and

provide your Regional Manager with up-to-date contact details for you and family members.

I hope to meet as many people as possible on my branch visits or at local events and shows. Please say hello if I have not met you yet and feel free to call me if you have any concerns or questions. Here is to a good year ahead for our region.

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