Crofting organisation push Scottish Government for "significant changes"

The Scottish Crofting Federation (SCF) have been working with MSPs since the Crofting and Scottish Land Reform Bill hit the statute book back in June 2025.

SCF have praised a number of alterations made during stage two of the parliamentary process including; strengthening the definition of environmental use of crofts, tightening rules over owner-occupied status, and additional steps put in place to prevent accidental separation. 

The member-led organisation’s chief executive, Donna Smith, welcomed the changes, but argued work still needed to be done during stage three. 

She said: “With respect to crofter led environmental initiatives on common grazings to

ensure that any benefits derived from these belong to active crofters. 

“The concern is that without this, there is a real risk that “green” lairds will take advantage of the situation and will try to force crofters into unfair agreements over carbon credits.

“We look forward to continuing constructive dialogue with both the Government and cross party MSPs over the coming weeks on these matters.”

Crofter-led initiatives on common grazings have become contentious as the SCF argue that the current wording will give landowners more extensive grounds to object to initiatives, leaving the commission to decide whether these are substantial or not.

Stage two of the bill is expected to be completed by February 20, and if agreed by the committee MSPs will be presented with a final draft in the coming weeks.