Crofting consultation launches

The Scottish Government has launched a consultation seeking views on the priorities for future crofting law.

The Crofting Consultation 2017 was launched by Rural Affairs Secretary Fergus Ewing on 28 August and will run for 12 weeks.

The public consultation seeks opinions on the form of new legislation and priorities for legislative change to ensure crofting law is fit for the 21st century.

Mr Ewing said:

"Crofting delivers valuable local benefits and a successful crofting sector helps our rural communities to thrive. It is therefore vital the law that governs it is fit for purpose.

"Initial discussions have shown while there is plenty of agreement that the current law needs to change, there are many views on what should replace it.

"I would strongly encourage anyone with an interest in the future of crofting –  whether they be crofters, landowners, those living in a crofting communities or in other parts of Scotland – to take part in this consultation and help us improve future legislation."

The consultation will close on 20 November 2017.

The Crofting Consultation 2017 is available via the Scottish Government’s consultation website.

Alternatively copies of the document can be acquired by emailing the Crofting Bill team or by visiting a Scottish Government rural office.

A series of public meetings will be held to help with any issues when responding to the consultation. Details will be available on Eventbrite shortly.