Crofting regulations face more opposition

PLANS to shake up regulations governing crofting still face opposition, despite receiving general approval from MSPs yesterday.

The Scottish Parliament's rural affairs and environment committee has recommended the Crofting Reform (Scotland) Bill proceeds, saying crofting is in need of greater protection and support.

Maureen Watt, the convener, has welcomed moves to give the Crofters Commission more powers to address issues such as the under-use of crofts and speculation in croft land.

The committee recommends that absenteeism and neglect are tackled, but with sensitivity to individual circumstances.

However, members were split on whether the bill should create a map-based register of crofts that will cost 1.5 million and charge crofters a fee.

Marina Dennis, convener of the Scottish Crofting Federation, said: "The lack of concurrence between committee members on some important points is disappointing, but does show how legislating on crofting is not a simple matter.

"We urge the committee to work with the SCF and the government in finding workable and acceptable ways forward."

The bill will be debated next week and Labour MSPs have warned they will table an amendment urging radical changes.

Highlands and Islands Labour MSP Peter Peacock said: "There is still a long way to go in amending this bill if it is not to damage crofting and dump yet more bureaucracy and cost on crofters. There is fundamental disagreement on some key aspects, and we will continue to fight those particular proposals."