The Agriculture Bill: the next step in the road to reform

We’ve been waiting for the Agriculture Bill (or the Agriculture and Rural Communities Bill, to use its full title) for a while now – so was it worth the wait?

Perhaps not – at least, not yet.  It’s a “framework” bill, meaning a lot of the detail will come through in secondary legislation. Despite that, there is a lot in the new bill to consider.

The Scottish Government is hailing it as “landmark legislation” aimed at helping it achieve its vision that Scotland become a global leader in sustainable and regenerative agriculture.  It will ultimately lead to the creation of a new four-tier farm support system, from 2026, as set out in the Agricultural Reform Route Map published earlier this year and updated in June. The objectives of the bill reflect the growing focus on natural capital – with nature restoration and climate mitigation sitting alongside food production.

Whilst the objectives themselves have broad support, stakeholders across rural Scotland have expressed disappointment about the lack of clear policy and funding commitments at this stage. As a result, there is ongoing concern about the ability of rural businesses to make decisions about investment for the future.  There is also a perception that the farming community is bearing the brunt of the climate load – with NFU Scotland observing that Scottish agriculture is being asked to do much of the “heavy lifting” to meet the country’s climate and natural goals.

Further updates will follow. Meantime, if you have any queries please contact Lorna McKay or your usual contact in our rural business team.

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