The future of agricultural decision making is still unclear after Brexit talks between the UK and Scottish governments in Edinburgh this week.

EU farming legislation is currently implemented by the devolved government and talks were expected to lend clarity to whether Westminster or Holyrood would assume responsibility for agricultural policy, either in part or altogether.

“We were united on the aim that the Scottish Parliament has more powers at the end of this process, and on the importance of preserving free trade within the United Kingdom,” First Secretary of State Damian Green said after the talks, without specifying if agricultural policy would be part of these powers.

However, Scottish Brexit Minister Michael Russell said the UK government is attempting a “blatant power grab” and that “unless there are serious and significant changes to the proposed legislation, the strong likelihood is that the Scottish Parliament will vote against the repeal bill”.

“We are not opposed in principle to UK-wide frameworks in certain areas – but what is now needed is a recognition from the UK government that the bill as drafted cannot proceed,” said Russell.

Farmers in the dark on Brexit

Meanwhile, 14 UK farm organisations issued a joint statement to the government this week requesting short-term certainty for the industry. Clarity has not been provided on what trade deal or transition arrangements will be in place post-Brexit.

The statement calls on the government to “secure an agreement on an initial transition period through which the UK retains unfettered access to European markets, remaining within the Customs Union” and to put in place “a fully functioning immigration system”.

Signatories include NFU Scotland, National Beef Association, Scottish Land and Estates and the National Sheep Association.

Rural Economy Secretary Fergus Ewing welcomed the statement, saying: “Remaining within the EU – and the world’s largest single market – is the best option for our future.

“And there is no doubt that we will need a transition period to avoid a hard cliff edge, should Scotland have to leave the EU with the UK ... Brexit should not be used as cover for a power grab.”