SEBG News
Farming Industry Addresses New Entrants Issue at Special Conference
12th September 2006Scotland’s farming organisations are to address the crucial issue of creating opportunities for new entrants to the industry at a special conference being staged by the Scottish Estates Business Group (SEBG).
SEBG, which represents progressive rural estates throughout Scotland, is hosting the conference at Our Dynamic Earth in Edinburgh on Thursday, September 28.
Alex Salmond, leader of the Scottish National Party, will give the keynote address and Professor Jeff Maxell, chairman of the cross-industry Tenant Farming Forum, will chair the event.
Former NFUS President John Cameron, Andrew Stewart, from the Scottish Association of Young Farmers Clubs, and Alan Barr of Brodies, will also address the conference.
Representatives from NFUS, STFA, the Scottish Estates Business Group and the Scottish Rural Property and Business Association are also attending.
Roddy Jackson, Deputy Chairman of SEBG, said: “It is in everyone’s interests that the issue of new entrants is addressed on a cross-industry basis. Scotland’s rural estates are committed to finding practical and constructive solutions.
“We are delighted that Alex Salmond has agreed to give the keynote address at the conference and that all the relevant industry organisations are taking part.
“We look forward to a constructive debate on the key issues affecting farming opportunities for new entrants and to achieving a solution to this very serious problem. I believe this is best tackled by a coordinated, united approach and SEBG is keen to work with all those in the industry to deliver the objective of freeing up land for the next generation of farmers.”
For further information contact Gordon Robertson on 0131 555 1015 or Polly McPherson on pollymcpherson@sebg.org or call 01620 861 898.
Notes to editors
SEBG represents a group of progressive land-based estates with significant agricultural and rural business interests. It aims to promote a modern business approach in the management of Scotland's land resource in ways which deliver social, economic and environmental benefits. The Group seeks to secure a sustainable and prosperous future for rural areas and its members work hard across Scotland to stimulate enterprise and economic development.
