Welcoming the opportunity to comment on a recent consultation, NFU Scotland has put forward the broad views of members on the Draft Crofting Reform (Scotland) Bill.

The bill lays out in detail how the Scottish Executive intends to simplify and update crofting law. NFU Scotland were keen to give their views since it is essential that modern crofting has a legislative framework which allows it to take advantage of the many opportunities available.

Some of the points highlighted in the NFUS submission were:

• It is vital that the link with crofts and agriculture is maintained and that agriculture remains the mainstay of crofting life.

• Full implications of extending the crofting counties e.g. Arran and some parts of Strathspey, need to be clarified and consulted upon in more detail.

• Energy must be considered a reasonable purpose for the resumption of land.

• Crofting tenancies must be held by individuals and croft tenants should not be able to form a limited company to hold the tenancy of the croft.

Lisa Webb, NFU Scotland Regional Manager, said:

"Crofting is a crucial element of rural Scotland, with important economic, environmental and social benefits, to local communities. Legislation in the area has always been complicated and so we welcome the chance to comment on its simplification.

"There are a number of amendments which we would like to see, but, in general, the chance for crofters to better understand and take advantage of the framework under which they live and work, is one to be grasped.

"We are keen, however, to learn more about the implications of extending crofting counties and believe that NFUS and other stakeholders should be consulted in more depth on this."