Scottish tenant farmers and landlords are being encouraged to participate in a survey gathering views and experiences of the conduct of land agents.
The survey is part of a review of the conduct of agents in relation to matters relating to agricultural holdings, on behalf of tenant farming commissioner (TFC) Bob McIntosh.
Mr McIntosh is tasked with completing the review and making recommendations to the Scottish Government by March 2018.
“In order for the researchers to deliver a robust factual report it is important that we have a representative sample of both landlords and tenant farmers,” said Mr McIntosh.
“Participating in the survey is entirely voluntary, but I would encourage both landlords and tenants to take part so that we can get a true understanding of the current situation with regard to the operation of agents and the impact it has on relations in the sector.”
He said all information provided would be completely confidential and Research Resource, which is conducting the survey, would ensure individual responses were not traceable.
A representative sample of tenant farmers will be interviewed and any landlords interested in taking part are asked to contact Lorna Shaw at Research Resource on 0141 641 6410.
The Scottish Tenant Farmers’ Association (STFA) encouraged tenant farmers to participate in the survey.
Association director Angus McCall said: “Although most agents behave in a responsible and professional way, STFA has long been aware of bad practice which has always been difficult to substantiate. The TFC’s review should now be able to put some facts to the anecdotes for all to see.”