NFU Scotland has appointed its first ever full-time parliamentary officer ahead of a year including key decisions on CAP reform, the independence referendum and European elections.
Clare Slipper, 23, has a first-class degree in politics and sociology from Newcastle University and two years' experience with a lobbying organisation where she co-ordinated corporate events and liaised with government departments.
NFU Scotland chief executive Scott Walker said the timing of Slipper’s appointment could not have been better.
“With a new set of MEPs to be elected in May, ongoing CAP implementation discussions to be had, land and tenancy reform on the agenda and the Scottish independence referendum in September, it is a year which has huge implications for the political landscape in Scotland.
“NFU Scotland can be very proud of the links it has established with politicians and their staff – whether in Holyrood, Westminster or Brussels – and this appointment will build on our activity and allow us to fine-tune our political messages.
“Getting the ear of politician and influencing policy is at the core of NFU Scotland’s role but it is an area where there is a lot of competition from individuals and other organisations.
“NFUS has a solid reputation with parliamentarians in the professional way that we conduct our business and having Clare fully committed to parliamentary work will help ensure that Scotland’s farmers’ voices continue to be heard.”
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