26.06.2015
A Holyrood Committee is urging every organisation and individual with an interest in the future of land management and ownership in Scotland to share their opinions on the Scottish Government’s land reform bill.
The Scottish Parliament’s Rural Affairs, Climate Change and Environment (RACCE) Committee’s call for views comes as it begins its scrutiny of the bill.
Convener of the Rural Affairs, Climate Change and Environment Committee, Rob Gibson MSP said:
“The Committee’s call for views is an opportunity for people to influence the future of land ownership and use by voicing their views and opinions on the issues that matter to them.
“The Government’s bill covers significant issues, such as land reform, tenant farming and deer management. Its ambitious aim is to ensure land ownership and use in Scotland benefits all. It is crucial we get this right.
“We hope to hear views and opinions from across the country on the fundamental and important issue of how Scotland’s land should be owned and managed to benefit us all. It’s crucial that the valuable knowledge, experience and expertise of everyone in Scotland with a vested interest in our land’s future feed into our work where possible.”
Mr Gibson continued:
"Whilst some have sought to characterise this as a polarising debate we already have areas which have attracted support from all sectors, such as the completion of the Land Register.
"We want to hear the full range of views on all aspects of the bill, but as we take forward the process it is important that the debate is conducted from all sides in a measured, constructive and respectful way. That is what the Committee expects and wants."
The Committee will produce a report on its scrutiny of the Scottish Government’s land reform bill by the end of the year.
Background
The Scottish Parliament’s Rural Affairs, Climate Change and Environment Committee (RACCE). The Committee scrutinises Scottish Government policy proposals relating to rural affairs, climate change and the environment.
The deadline for submitting evidence to the Rural Affairs, Climate Change and Environment Committee (RACCE) is Friday 14 August 2015.
For further details on making a submission visit: www.scottish.parliament.uk/land-reform-bill