First Minister John Swinney has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to Scotland’s agricultural sector while outlining plans to begin engagement on the forthcoming Rural Renewal Bill during a visit to the Royal Highland Show.
Speaking on the opening day of the event, Mr Swinney highlighted the importance of farming and rural communities to Scotland’s economy and cultural identity, while signalling early progress on legislation aimed at supporting long-term sustainable growth.
The First Minister attended the Quality Meat Scotland breakfast and met representatives from the National Farmers Union Scotland (NFUS), alongside Rural Affairs Secretary Gillian Martin and Agriculture Minister Jim Fairlie. He is also expected to visit a range of stallholders across the showground.
Describing the Royal Highland Show as a “world-class showcase” of Scotland’s produce, Mr Swinney praised the sector’s global reputation and its role in supporting jobs and businesses across the country.
“The Royal Highland Show is a world-class showcase of Scotland’s high-quality farming, food and drink,” he said. “I am delighted to be meeting so many people who play key roles in our agriculture sector today, and look forward to discussing how my government can help farmers to thrive.”
He added that Scotland’s farming and food and drink industries are central to the national economy, particularly in rural and island communities where agriculture often underpins local livelihoods.
“Our country’s farming and food and drink sectors are renowned around the world and accounts for some of Scotland’s most iconic exports. It is also at the heart of our economy, sustaining businesses and employment across the length and breadth of the country – including in rural areas and islands, where farms and crofts often form the foundation of communities,” Mr Swinney said.
The First Minister also confirmed that the Scottish Government will begin engagement on the Rural Renewal Bill within its first 100 days, aiming to work closely with communities and businesses to shape legislation that supports rural prosperity.
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“We committed to taking forward the Rural Renewal Bill within our first 100 days of government, and we are delivering on that,” he said. “Beginning engagement on it will provide the opportunity to work with rural communities and business, delivering the legislation they need to help our rural and island communities grasp the opportunities before them.”
Mr Swinney concluded by pledging continued support for rural Scotland, emphasising his government’s intention to champion the sector’s interests as it looks to the future.
“I am pleased that we will soon begin this engagement on this legislation which will help our rural and island communities reach their potential. Rural Scotland can be assured that as First Minister, I will work tirelessly to champion their interests.”
