ÍæÅ¼½ã½ã

Scottish First Minister Humza Yousaf 'encourages' NFUS after meeting on farming's 'vital role' to the economy

The Scottish First Minister met NFUS president Martin Kennedy, chief executive John Davidson, director of policy Jonnie Hall and political affairs manager Beatrice Morrice at the Scottish Parliament to discuss Storm Babet, food production, biodiversity and climate change

clock • 2 min read
From left to right: NFUS chief executive John Davidson, NFUS political affairs manager Beatrice Morrice, NFUS president Martin Kennedy, Scottish First Minister Humza Yousaf and NFUS director of policy Jonnie Hall
Image:

From left to right: NFUS chief executive John Davidson, NFUS political affairs manager Beatrice Morrice, NFUS president Martin Kennedy, Scottish First Minister Humza Yousaf and NFUS director of policy Jonnie Hall

Scottish First Minister Humza Yousaf has held ‘positive discussions' with NFU Scotland officials about the vital role of farming in supporting the nation's economy and supporting rural communities.

Mr Yousaf said he recognised the important responsibility farmers had in ‘food production, improving biodiversity and tackling climate change' after holding a meeting with NFUS representatives on Tuesday (October 24) in Scottish Parliament.

NFUS president Martin Kennedy, chief executive John Davidson, director of policy Jonnie Hall and political affairs manager Beatrice Morrice were at the meeting where the First Minister also reaffirmed his support for farmers affected by flooding over the past few weeks.

Mr Kennedy said: "Excellent meeting with the First Minister highlighting the vital role the sector plays in our rural economy and also its importance in supporting rural communities and caring for our environment - including, if allowed, our ability to help with flood management."

Mr Davidson addedd: "Really positive and constructive meeting with First Minister Humza Yousaf - lots of issues covered and I came away enthused by the First Minister's recognition of the vital role our farmers and crofters play in our society and willingness to work together going forward."

After meeting with victims of floods in Brechin, Angus, on Monday (October 23), Mr Yousaf said it would be a ‘long road to recovery' for farmers, businesses and families.

"I am afraid it is going to be a long journey to recovery given the devastation and the scale of the impact the community has faced," he added.

"It is my job to assure residents and business we are working hand in glove to help with the recovery phase."

See also: Defra Secretary Therese Coffey blames 'lack of experience' on easterly rain for response to Storm Babet

2014 Used Massey 7626 7.4L SISU 240hp

£±Ê°¿´¡

Used Deutz Fahr 6155PS

£±Ê°¿´¡

New Kubota M4-073

£±Ê°¿´¡

More on Politics

Daniel Zeichner: "Average Farm Business Incomes are forecast to rise in the first year of this Labour Government"

Daniel Zeichner: "Average Farm Business Incomes are forecast to rise in the first year of this Labour Government"

In an exclusive for ÍæÅ¼½ã½ã, Farming Minister Daniel Zeichner sets out his agenda for the recently announced Farm Profitability Review, led by Baroness Minette Batters

ÍæÅ¼½ã½ã
clock 18 April 2025 • 3 min read
From the editor: "Greater powers needed to deal with incidents of livestock worrying"

From the editor: "Greater powers needed to deal with incidents of livestock worrying"

This week from ÍæÅ¼½ã½ã acting editor Katie Jones

clock 17 April 2025 • 2 min read
NFU Council: Union considers changing tack on IHT in bid to preserve lobby role

NFU Council: Union considers changing tack on IHT in bid to preserve lobby role

ÍæÅ¼½ã½ã must try to take the positives and avoid being trapped in a ‘doom loop’ says NFU president Tom Bradshaw as he addresses union members in Stoneleigh

Rachael Brown
clock 17 April 2025 • 3 min read