A stronger voice for the people, businesses and industries that sustain our rural communities
Rural Scotland makes an enormous contribution to our country’s economy, environment and way of life. From farming and food production to fishing, forestry and tourism, our rural industries support thousands of jobs and sustain communities across the country.
Yet too often, the particular challenges facing rural Scotland are overlooked when decisions are made in Edinburgh.
As the Scottish Liberal Democrats’ spokesperson for Rural Affairs, Farming and Food, I’m determined to make sure that rural voices are heard and that government policy reflects the realities of running a business, producing food and living in our rural communities.
Having lived and worked in the Highlands for many years, I know that the challenges go far beyond any single industry. Affordable housing, transport connections, access to workers, reliable public services and the cost of doing business all affect the future of rural Scotland.
My approach is straightforward: listen to the people who know their industries best, challenge policies that aren’t working and press for practical solutions that help our rural communities thrive.
This page brings together my work on rural affairs, including parliamentary debates, committee scrutiny, meetings with industry representatives and the policies I’m championing.
My rural affairs priorities
Farming and food production
Fishing and coastal communities
Supporting farmers, crofters and food producers with fair, workable agricultural policy, long-term funding certainty and a stronger future for Scottish food production.
Standing up for Scotland’s fishing industry, supporting sustainable fisheries and ensuring that the voices of fishermen and coastal communities are heard in decisions affecting their livelihoods.
Forestry and woodland
Thriving rural communities
Championing a thriving forestry sector, sustainable timber production, rural employment, investment in processing and greater opportunities for Scottish-grown timber.
Pressing for policies that support rural housing, transport, local services, small businesses and stronger local decision-making, so that rural communities remain places where people can live and work.
Standing up for rural industries
The best rural policies are shaped by the people who have to make them work.
That’s why I believe it is essential to listen directly to farmers, crofters, fishermen, foresters, food producers and the businesses that depend on them.
Through my work in Parliament and engagement with industry organisations, I’m raising concerns about the future of agricultural support, the impact of marine policy on fishing communities, investment in forestry and the wider challenges facing rural businesses.
I want rural Scotland to be recognised not simply as somewhere that needs support, but as a vital part of our country’s economic future.
Below you can follow the issues I’m raising and the action I’m taking.
The future of agricultural support
Your Rural Affairs Committee scrutiny of the Rural Support Plan, including the need for clarity on funding beyond 2031, measurable outcomes and proper engagement with farmers.
Growing Scotland’s forestry sector
Your work on forestry, including timber supply, processing capacity, skills, investment and the opportunities for greater use of Scottish timber in housebuilding.
Have your say on rural Scotland’s future
I want my work as Rural Affairs spokesperson to be informed by the people who understand rural Scotland best.
Whether you’re a farmer, crofter, fisherman, forestry worker, rural business owner or someone who simply cares about the future of our communities, I’d welcome your views.
If there’s a policy that isn’t working, an issue that needs attention or an opportunity that government should be supporting, please get in touc