AGRISCOT: NFU SCOTLAND CALLS FOR SCOTTISH BUDGET ACTION ON FUTURE OF FARMING
With Holyrood’s budget due in January, and the UK Autumn Budget fast approaching, NFU Scotland President Andrew Connon used the AgriScot platform to deliver a clear message: Scotland’s farmers and crofters need confidence, clarity, and commitment.
“The message from AgriScot is loud and clear – Scottish agriculture needs a Budget that delivers. Farmers and crofters are stepping up on food security, climate targets, and biodiversity, but they’re doing so under intense financial pressure,” said Connon.
“It’s time for the Scottish Government to deliver its side of the bargain, with a clear, multi-annual funding commitment, targeted investment through schemes like the Future Farming Investment Scheme, and a fair approach to new rules and regulations.”
At the heart of NFU Scotland’s submission for the 2026–27 Scottish Budget are five clear priorities:
• An increased agriculture budget that reflects rising costs and growing demands on the sector
• A multi-year funding commitment to give farm businesses confidence to invest
• Protection of farm support – money for farming must stay in farming
• A guarantee that at least 70% of support goes to active farming and crofting, as previously promised by the First Minister
• Delivery of the £26 million Future Farming Investment Fund, with improved targeting and transparency
While the debate focused on devolved responsibilities, Connon also repeated NFU Scotland’s deep concerns over UK Government proposals to reform Inheritance Tax, describing them as “misguided, damaging and unfair.”
“These changes risk penalising succession, dismantling family farms and destabilising rural businesses. This is not just a technical tax issue, it’s about the long-term future of Scottish food production.”
The full report of this debate can be found on the NFUS website.
