Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Sustainable John Swinney MSP highlighted the Scottish Government's plans to support rural Scotland and its role in the economy at Guthrie Castle in Angus last night (Thursday).
The North Tayside MSPaddressed more than 100 rural business delegates at the event hosted by leading Tayside legal firm,Thorntons.
Mr Swinney said: "The Scottish Government attaches the greatest significance to the prosperity of the rural economy.
"Our purpose is to increase sustainable economic growth in Scotland and we want every part of the country to share in that growth.
"That aspiration means we want to support the development of a new culture of aspiration for the agriculture, forestry, environmental and food and drink sectors to ensure they contribute a great deal to our economy.
"Coupled with accessible public services in rural Scotland, the Scottish Government is clear in its determination to create a vibrant rural economy."
Mike Blair, partner and head of the Land and Rural Business team at Thorntons, added: "The recent launch of the Rural Development Council recognises the challenges faced by the Government to develop an integrated policy which will positively contribute to sustainable economic growth in Scotland.
"Issues such as food security, sporting use and recreation, rights of access, business development, energy, pollution and the environmentwill have a growing influence on these challenges.
"Thorntons is delighted to welcome Mr Swinney to address our partners and industry delegates on both obstacles and opportunities lying ahead for rural Scotland."
Thorntons' rapidly-expanding Land and Rural Business team – which includes agricultural law specialists accredited by the Law Society of Scotland – aims to be an unrivalled source of advice across the rural business spectrum, from straight farming either as owner or tenant to forestry, sporting, energy, environment, land development, estates and relations with the public bodies.
Thorntons has recently expanded its specialist rural business law team with the appointment of Anne Curtis as associate and consultant Richard Blake, who is also currently legal adviser to the Scottish Rural Business and Property Association (SRPBA)
Issued by Beattie Communications on behalf of Thorntons Solicitors.
Contact: Kimberley Hamilton, Tel 01698 787878