Scottish Farmers Call for Long-Term Solutions to Ensure Sector's Sustainability

Strategic Insights -

The National Farmers' Union Scotland (NFUS) has launched its pre-Budget submission, outlining eight key actions needed to safeguard the future of Scottish agriculture. The union's president, Andrew Connon, emphasized the need for practical, fair, and future-focused solutions to address the industry's current strain. NFUS is urging the government to implement measures that will unlock investment, ease pressure on rural businesses, and deliver long-term sustainability for the sector.

Key Takeaways:

  • NFUS has set out eight key actions for the UK Autumn Budget to safeguard the future of Scottish agriculture, including a fairer approach to inheritance tax reform and increased investment in low-carbon farm infrastructure.
  • The union is calling for the reversal of changes to National Insurance that threaten rural employment and the maintenance of reduced duty on red diesel essential for farm operations.
  • NFUS is also seeking a delay to the UK Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism and improvements to Making Tax Digital to reflect agricultural realities.
  • The submission has been shared with the Treasury and Scotland Office, with NFUS urging the government to delay inheritance tax changes due to start in April 2026.
  • NFUS represents over 9,000 Scottish farmers and crofters, urging the government to prioritize long-term solutions for the sector's sustainability.

Statistics:

  • Over 9,000 Scottish farmers and crofters are represented by NFUS.
  • Inheritance tax changes due to start in April 2026 are opposed by NFUS, which is calling for alternative approaches that achieve revenue goals without jeopardizing the viability of family farms.
  • The UK Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism is set to account for the carbon cost of producing imported goods.
  • Red diesel duty has been maintained at a reduced rate, essential for farm operations.

Sources:

  • "NFU Scotland says the industry needs more than short-term fixes", Farmery (2023)
  • "UK Autumn Budget submission from National Farmers Union Scotland", NFUS (2023)
  • "Budget 2023: What the Chancellor will be talking about", BBC News (2023)
  • "Scotland's farmers fear Budget squeeze", The Times (2023)