Rural economy takes centre stage as party heavyweights clash at key election hustings

Press Release

Driving growth, investment and opportunity in Scotland’s rural economy took centre stage as senior political figures from across the spectrum came head-to-head at a major pre-election debate hosted by Scottish Land & Estates.

The Rural Debate, held at The Pavilion at Ingliston in front of an audience of 75 rural business leaders and stakeholders, brought together representatives from all six main political parties to debate the future of Scotland’s countryside.

Panellists tackled a wide-ranging agenda spanning energy, tourism, farming, forestry, land reform, housing and transport - with clear dividing lines emerging on how best to unlock the potential of rural Scotland. Nonetheless, there was a high degree of consensus between all the candidates on the need to deliver more for rural Scotland in the next parliament.

Opening the discussion, SNP’s Jim Fairlie emphasised the need to re-energise the role of producers within Scotland’s food and drink sector, and emphasised the benefits to Scottish farmers of the continued direct support approach.  Rachael Hamilton from the Scottish Conservatives highlighted the cumulative impact of recent legislation on rural businesses. She also pointed to rising business rates from April 1 and called for closer collaboration between government and industry.

Daniel Johnson of Scottish Labour argued for an integrated industrial strategy to better connect Scotland’s urban, rural and coastal economies, stressing the role enterprise agencies must play in delivering that vision. Meanwhile, Willie Rennie of the Scottish Liberal Democrats said governments must better understand the infrastructure and support rural businesses need, also calling for stronger partnership working to deliver it.

From the Scottish Greens, Mags Hall set out a focus on strengthening rural communities   - including tackling the housing emergency, expanding childcare provision and bringing buses back into public ownership. Malcolm Offord, representing Reform UK in Scotland, took a contrasting approach, arguing for reduced tax and regulation, and he highlighted Scotland’s strength in sectors such as food and drink, tourism, agriculture, fisheries and the marine economy, suggesting that these could play a greater key role in reversing rural depopulation.

The debate was chaired by SLE Chief Executive Sarah-Jane Laing, who said the event provided a vital platform for rural businesses to put their concerns directly to those seeking to form the next Scottish Government.

Sarah-Jane Laing said: “Bringing representatives from across the political spectrum face-to-face with rural businesses at such a critical time is hugely valuable. What came through clearly is that while there is no shortage of ideas, there is still a pressing need for greater clarity, consistency and genuine partnership if the rural economy is to reach its full potential.

“Rural Scotland is not a niche political topic - it is fundamental to the country’s economic success, from food production and energy to tourism and housing. However, too often, rural businesses feel policy is being done to them rather than with them. That has to change. If we are serious about growth, jobs and investment, government must work in real partnership with those delivering on the ground.

“One of the strongest messages from our members is the need for certainty. Businesses simply cannot invest, plan or grow if the policy environment is constantly shifting or unclear.

“This debate underlined just how important it is that rural voices are heard loud and clear - both before and after the election - and we will continue to make sure they are. Our thanks go to all panellists for a lively and engaging discussion.”