"The publication of the Land Reform Bill represents an important milestone in Scotland’s land reform journey. The Bill contains many important measures, including powers to enable the lotting of large landholdings, and ensure they use land in a way that supports public policy priorities. The measures to empower communities with more opportunities to own land are also welcome and much needed.

 

“However, transforming the way that land is owned, used and managed is crucial to delivering a just transition and meeting Scotland’s climate and nature targets, and we are disappointed at the Bill’s lack of ambition in this regard.

 

“The Bill also falls short on action needed to tackle Scotland’s housing crisis. A dysfunctional land market lies at the root of Scotland’s housing crisis, and opportunities to address these issues have been overlooked. Furthermore, an unfair and inefficient system of taxation continues to compound inequalities, and it is disappointing that fiscal reform has not been included within the scope of the Bill. 

“We look forward to engaging with the Scottish Government to ensure the legislation is strengthened to tackle the intertwined challenges we face.”

 

ENDS

NOTES TO EDITORS 

 

[1] Future Economy Scotland is a non-partisan think tank that aims to create a new economy that is democratic, sustainable and just. The organisation does not have a formal stance on Scotland’s constitutional future, and is not aligned to any political party or any politician. The organisation is a not-for-profit company limited by guarantee operating with charitable principles. For more information, visit: www.futureeconomy.scot

[2] To book an interview with a spokesperson, or for any other questions, please contact press@futureeconomy.scot or call communications lead Ian Fraser on 07803 970393.

 

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