The centrepiece debate between Scotland’s farming minister and the leader of the farmers’ union will not take place as usual at next week’s Agriscot.
Just 24 hours after the Scottish farm business event of the year confirmed a morning head-to-head, it was revealed that the Scottish Government has pulled out of any involvement in what is often a bruising encounter.
It is understood that Rural Economy Minister Fergus Ewing has cited a long-standing diary commitment as the reason for his no-show, despite the involvement of his predecessor at every Agriscot for the past nine years.
Agriscot chairman Andrew Moir said he was disappointed that neither Mr Ewing nor anyone from Scottish Government was available to take part in the annual event.
“I’m disappointed for them that they can’t send someone along to discuss the cutting issues of the day, but the offer is still open,” he said.
No one from the Scottish Government was available for comment, however it is expected that Mr Ewing’s officials will ‘listen in’ to a hastily arranged standby discussion hosted by union president Allan Bowie and his two vice-presidents.
A flyer from Agriscot on Tuesday promised ‘the much-anticipated political debate’ between NFUS president Allan Bowie and a senior Scottish Government official, would thrash out the current issues affecting Scotland’s farmers and crofters.
Instead Mr Bowie and vice-presidents, Rob Livesey and Andrew McCornick will use the slot to map out the work streams for the union. The floor will then be opened to the membership for their views on what needs to be tackled now, and what the union’s priorities should be in a post-Brexit era.
NFUS chief executive Scott Walker put a positive spin on the situation.
“Although our seminar slot has traditionally had a political focus and featured several politicians over the years, circumstances allow us the opportunity to re-jig the format,” he said.
“Given that this is an election year for NFUS, it is right that we give our existing presidential team the opportunity to engage with members as they firm up on their plans on whether to stand again for our top positions.
