National Council of Rural Advisers announced

The National Council of Rural Advisers has been annnounced by Rural Secretary Fergus Ewing.

The new Council will cover all aspects of future rural development, including appropriate financial support beyond 2022.

It will provide advice on the potential implications of Scotland leaving the European Union as part of the UK, and make recommendations on future policy and support, with the aim of ensuring a vibrant, sustainable and productive rural economy.

Announcing the new group ahead of the Royal Highland Show, Mr Ewing said:

"I want to drive the rural economy forward and that is why I am announcing the establishment of a National Council, bringing together key experts, including the agriculture champions, to look at the future of the sector and provide me with recommendations early next year.

"While it will be for the National Council to set up work stream groups as needed to focus on specific issues, I would anticipate themes such as affordability, sustainability, productivity, inclusion and innovation – and of course the wider implications of the UK’s decision to leave the EU – to feature prominently.

"I am confident the National Council can become an engine of expertise that helps to set a strategic framework for future policy development and I look forward to working with all parties towards our shared goal of creating a sustainable rural economy."

Lorne Crerar and Alison Milne are to be Co-Chairs of the National Council of Rural Advisers 

Lorne Crerar joined the Board of HIE in April 2008 and was appointed as Chair in March 2012. Lorne is a founding partner and Chairman of leading Scottish commercial law firm Harper Macleod LLP.

Alison Milne is a self-employed consultant, currently representing the Scottish Tenant Farmers Association on matters relating to agricultural policy. 

Visit the Scottish Government website to find out more.