Accounts to the year ending 31 October 2017 show that the National Farmers Union of Scotland’s (NFUS) turnover has increased from £2.72m to £2.85m. According to chief executive Scott Walker, the 5% increase is driven by increased engagement with membership and politicians on Brexit. Operating profits saw a £5,000 fall to £32,131.

Compliance with accounting standard means that theoretical gains on investment and property must now be accounted, resulting in unrealised gains of £178,089 being included in the accounts – which has resulted in a profit before tax of £288,357, compared with £289,265 in 2016.

Subscriptions income rose by 2.3% to £2.12m, individual subscription fees have increased by 2% for the last number of years and will do so again in 2018. NFUS is currently advertising for two new roles; an economist and a Brexit policy officer.

“Since the referendum on EU membership in June 2016, the Union has built a positive case for Scotland’s farmers and crofters to be supported outside of the EU – via continued free trade with the EU; new, ambitious international trade deals; access to a non-UK labour pool and a well-funded, refreshed agricultural policy that fits the needs of Scotland’s unique landscape and farming practices,” NFU Scotland chief executive Scott Walker said at a Christmas press briefing this week.

“Our strategy to grow our affinity partners to put money back in the pockets of our members, while at the same time developing a new income source for the Union, is paying off.

“With this money, I plan to increase the size of our policy team, which will ensure that we continue to represent farmers and crofters on the big issues as well as delivering assistance to members in their time of need,” Walker concluded.