Singing from same tenancy hymn sheet

Traditionally they have been in opposite corners of the ring on farm tenancies but yesterday both Scottish Land & Estates, representing landowners, and NFU Scotland, putting tenants’ views, were almost word-perfect in unanimity.

Speaking in Aberdeen, union president Nigel Miller said that having a vibrant tenanted sector in Scotland was key to agriculture attracting new lifeblood, adding there was a “positive momentum around tenancy reform”.

Luke Borwick, chairman of Scottish Land & Estates, said his members – often also members of the union – would be delighted to hear the NFUS president reaffirm the union’s commitment to tenant farming.

“The vision of NFUS – which represents most tenant farmers in Scotland – of a healthy tenant farming sector is a vision our members share and hold dear.”

Both organisations mentioned the continued need for a simpler system of arbitration when problems do arise between landlord and tenant.