Scotland’s “unprecedented engagement with politics” following last week’s referendum should be used to drive the farming, food and drink sectors forward, NFU Scotland has said.
“The referendum kindled an unprecedented engagement with politics across rural and urban Scotland,” said NFUS president, Nigel Miller. “From our perspective, it is imperative that in moving forward, Scotland fulfils the huge potential within our farming and food and drink sectors.
“As a representative organisation that brings together farmers and crofters across all sectors, we will work to unite all politicians, regardless of party or parliament, on the need to capitalise on the real opportunities for our produce both at home and abroad.”
NFUS remained impartial in the run up to the vote, but hosted referendum debates in which more than a third of members participated.
Miller said that, despite promises that Scotland will receive more devolved powers, clarity on what they will include and the timescale for delivery will be important if momentum for positive change is to be maintained.
He said NFU Scotland will engage in the debate, taking place in Westminster next month, on what devolved powers Scotland will be given.
“The referendum has split Scotland but the impartial position that NFU Scotland adopted throughout is now a vital tool as Scotland and the UK move into a new political world.
“We can bridge the political landscape in Scotland and help to develop and energise a better future. Even before the vote was known, there was recognition that we were on the threshold of an era of change.”
Speaking last week at the launch of the NFU manifesto, and before the referendum led to a win for the no campaign, president Meurig Raymond, said: “If it’s going to be as close either way as the political pundits are saying, it’s going to cause uncertainty for some time.”
