Alyn Smith MEP

“We have seen no degree of seriousness on Scottish agricultural policy, only soundbites and spin, exports of pigs’ ears! There has been no serious engagement about pressing economic issues. The UK government accepted the EU template for negotiations when it did not need to.

“People need to be more aware of and involved in the status quo and future options. Farmers are well ahead of the EU knowledge curve, but need to see the seriousness of contingency planning for all scenarios.

“I think agriculture could be the sacrificial lamb for trade deals.”

Rhona Patterson Newmill, Moray

“Things are concerning. We’re really worried about Brexit. We’ll have to wait and see. I’m delighted the Scottish Government are fechting for convergence money. If they get it, it may bode well for something near to what we’re entitled to going forwards. I hope Fergus Ewing will continue in calling for this for farmers (and fishermen).

“[Brexit] will make life difficult for trade. It won’t stop it, but it will make life more difficult. Everybody is concerned about markets, but if the consumer can’t buy at the right price, Scottish markets will suffer.”

Ian Muirhead Stirlingshire

“These are critical times. It is very unclear what is happening with Brexit and whether the Scottish Government will have money to put in support schemes.

“A lot of farmers are quite apprehensive and scared, especially in a year like this. If support payments go down, it will be a double-whammy.

“Younger farmers are questioning their future. There are very few people I know from farming families who are farmers; they think they will have a better living and less stress working for someone else.

“There needs to be support for active farmers. Many farms need upgrading.”

Mike Russell Minister for UK negotiations on Scotland’s place in Europe

“There’s been a lot of discussion about Brexit. The sector is experiencing, very clearly, a fear of Scottish funding and an attempt to take power to Westminster from the EU and not to Holyrood will undermine Scottish agriculture.

“Every single farmer in my constituency gets LFASS and on day one these powers will be traded away. This would weaken agriculture and its output.”