Crofting is the “lifeblood” of island communities and must be taken into account as part of any future post-Brexit policy, claims the chairman of Westminster’s Scottish Affairs Committee, Pete Wishart.
Commenting on the findings from a recent visit by the committee to the Isle of Lewis, Mr Wishart stressed the need for the role of crofting in supporting the economic and social fabric of the Western Isles to be properly addressed by any post-Brexit policy.
“The visit not only revealed the historic significance of crofting to the Isle of Lewis but also highlighted the importance of crofting as the lifeblood of island communities,” said Mr Wishart.
An online report on the visit has also been published, including details of the main points covered during the committee’s time on Lewis.
On agriculture in general, the report highlights concern about the long-term supply of crofters, with some residents saying such issues are not priorities for the UK and Scottish Governments, with mainland farmers being given “preferential treatment” over island crofters.
