THE Prime Minister has been urged to put rural Scotland at the heart of the UK’s economic growth plans, with Scottish Land & Estates calling for a series of measures to unlock investment, create jobs and strengthen rural communities.
In a letter sent to Prime Minister Andy Burnham following his move into Downing Street this week, Scottish Land & Estates (SLE) outlined how rural Scotland could play a greater role in delivering the Government’s pledge of “good growth in every postcode”.
The organisation highlighted the importance of rural Scotland, which accounts for around a third of the UK’s land mass, produces half of its renewable energy and supports major industries including whisky, salmon and food and drink production.
SLE argues that rural businesses and communities have the skills and ambition to generate further economic growth but require policies that better reflect the realities of living and working in rural areas.
Among its proposals are locating new industries closer to renewable energy generation, introducing a rural workers’ visa to address labour shortages, using tax incentives and decentralising government functions to tackle depopulation, and providing targeted support for essential services such as pharmacies, nurseries and petrol stations.
The organisation has also invited the Prime Minister to visit a rural Scottish community to meet businesses and residents first-hand.
SLE chairman Patrick Colquhoun said: “Rural Scotland has the people, ideas and ambition to make a still greater contribution to the future of the UK. Our communities produce food and energy, support world-leading industries, restore nature and create opportunities in places which are too often overlooked.
“The Prime Minister’s commitment to good growth in every postcode is an opportunity to put rural areas at the heart of that agenda. We are not asking for unspecified support or more funding. We are setting out practical steps which could help rural businesses and communities create jobs, attract investment and deliver long-term opportunities.
“Locating industry close to renewable energy production, addressing labour shortages and protecting lifeline services would all make a real difference. We would be delighted to welcome the Prime Minister to rural Scotland to meet the people ready to turn that potential into growth.”
The call comes as Labour is reported to be considering proposals that would require ministers and civil servants to assess how new policies affect rural communities before they are introduced.
Scottish Land & Estates has long campaigned for mandatory Rural Impact Assessments and welcomed reports that the idea is being explored.
Mr Colquhoun added: “Any meaningful step to ensure the impact of policy on rural communities is properly considered would be welcomed by Scottish Land & Estates.
“Too often, policies developed in Westminster and Edinburgh overlook the distinct challenges and opportunities facing rural areas, from housing and jobs to energy, food production and essential services.
“Rural-proofing must be more than a box-ticking exercise. It should mean early and genuine engagement with rural businesses and communities, so their experience helps shape policy before decisions are made.”
