NFU Scotland has broadly welcomed the recommendations for further devolved powers for Scotland as unveiled by Lord Smith of Kelvin.
In particular NFUS president Nigel Miller has homed in on a section of the document which, if approved, would give Scottish ministers the much sought-after ability to not only attend EU meetings but also to speak for the UK in some cases.
Until now that has not been the case.
As recently as Agriscot last week, Cabinet Secretary Richard Lochhead was railing against Defra Secretary Liz Truss for not allowing him to attend a Fisheries Council. Instead negotiating powers were given to a Conservative peer.
The NFUS submitted evidence to the Smith Commission, and Mr Miller attended Thursday’s launch.
“It is impressive that, working within very short timescales, the Smith Commission has delivered such a far-reaching list of recommendations on devolution the scope of which cover, amongst other things, taxation, welfare, transport and representation,” he said.
“It is clear that all political parties have moved to make this happen.
“The agreement is in the centre ground of the debate and will bridge the aspirations of both those who voted yes and those who voted no.
“In doing so, there will be some on both sides of the divide who will feel frustrated at that compromise.
“A key element of the union’s submission, which looks to have been adopted, is the recognition that there must be better transparency, communication and governance between Westminster and the devolved parts of the UK.
“Particularly interesting is the point made that views of other devolved nations need to be reflected when drawing up any revised governance arrangements in relation to Scottish Government representation of the UK in the EU.
“The report goes into some detail about how this might be achieved: by ensuring Scottish ministers are fully involved in agreeing the UK position in EU negotiations relating to devolved policy matters and that their views are taken into account; and by presuming that a devolved administration minister can speak on behalf of the UK at a meeting of the Council of Ministers where the devolved administration minister holds the predominant policy interest across the UK.
“If implemented, this could be a big win for Scotland in future negotiations, and reflects the strongly held position of NFUS.”
Mr Miller said that consultation showed many NFUS members believed that meaningful tax-raising powers were now essential for Scotland to meet post-referendum aspirations.
However, it was important that the measures should be transparent to the electorate and not distort the single market or create competition issues.
“Today’s proposals appear to fit with that vision,” he said.
“Many of our members also supported any increase in Scottish tax powers being underpinned by a UK contribution that remains based on the Barnett formula.
“It was felt that retaining a link to the formula would provide a level of stability, and through the Barnett dividend it could help support the higher levels of spending required in Scotland’s peripheral and island areas.”
Food labelling has also been addressed by Lord Smith, with the suggestion that a ‘Made in Scotland’ brand should be recognised under EU law.
Agricultural levies particularly those relating to cattle, sheep and pigs have long been problematic, with little political progress made on repatriation of levies paid on Scottish livestock slaughtered in English and Welsh abattoirs.
The report advises the UK Government to revise the current legal and practical arrangements to ensure that Scotland can decide whether to opt into UK arrangements and, if so, receive an equitable share of any UK monies levied.
Mr Miller also noted the situation with Crown Estates’ land in Scotland, including its rural portfolio.
“The report advises full devolution of responsibility for the management of the Crown Estate’s economic assets in Scotland, and the revenue generated from these assets transferred to the Scottish Parliament.
“NFU Scotland will seek further detail on what the implications of this transfer may be for those tenants on Crown Estate farm land,” he said.
“It is accepted that not all the Smith Commission recommendations can be delivered ahead of the general election, and the discussion on Scotland’s future will continue into the 2016 Scottish Parliamentary election.
“However, this is a fast-paced start to the process, and the momentum from a standing start is impressive.”