51AVÊÓÆµ

Scottish Election 2026 - Jim Fairlie: "We cannot rely on Westminster to get it right for rural Scotland"

Ahead of May's election, Jim Fairlie writes on how the SNP has put the interests of farmers and crofters first in its near 20-year term in office, and how the party will back the farming sector in the future if it wins a fifth election

clock • 4 min read
Scotland's Agriculture and Connectivity Minister Jim Fairlie said: "From Brexit to funding cuts, to hikes in National Insurance and changes to Inheritance Tax, our farmers have been hit time and time again by an increasingly distant and out of touch Westminster.  Now more than ever, it is clear that decisions about Scottish agriculture should be taken here in Scotland by people who know and care about our rural communities."
Image:

Scotland's Agriculture and Connectivity Minister Jim Fairlie said: "From Brexit to funding cuts, to hikes in National Insurance and changes to Inheritance Tax, our farmers have been hit time and time again by an increasingly distant and out of touch Westminster.  Now more than ever, it is clear that decisions about Scottish agriculture should be taken here in Scotland by people who know and care about our rural communities."

The SNP cares deeply about our rural communities, farmers, and crofters - when they thrive Scotland thrives. With nearly three decades of experience of representing Highland Perthshire, SNP leader and...

To continue reading...

Already a member? Login for full access.

New to Farmers Guardian? Register for 1 free article per week or become a member for unlimited access to essential farming news and insights.

article-img-580x358

Ìý

More on Politics

Defra announces Farmer Collaboration Fund at Great Yorkshire Show

Defra announces Farmer Collaboration Fund at Great Yorkshire Show

Emma Reynolds has unveiled a £30 million to help farmers collaborate, cut costs and build stronger businesses

Alex Black
clock 16 July 2026 • 2 min read
From the editor: Fire risk demands a rethink on land management

From the editor: Fire risk demands a rethink on land management

This week from the Farmers Guardian editor Katie Jones

Katie Jones
clock 16 July 2026 • 2 min read
British crops could be illegal under new EU rules, says industry adviser

British crops could be illegal under new EU rules, says industry adviser

CAAV's Jeremy Moody warns SPS could lead Government to outsource farming policy

Jane Thynne
clock 14 July 2026 • 2 min read