The Farming Scotland Conference, held at Carnoustie on 3 February was a great success, with delegates enjoying interesting contributions from four speakers.

EQ were once again proud to host and co-sponsor the event which attracted more than 130 delegates.

Chris Rodgers, who heads up the Co-operative Bank’s Renewable Energy division, warned landowners to beware of poor advice and unreliable technology which is prevalent in the sector. He set out why renewable energy production presents a huge opportunity to rural businesses, and explained the rewards that are available and the hurdles to be overcome in terms of planning and logistics.

Our next speaker was James Price, an Oxfordshire farmer, who utilises technology and precision farming techniques on his family’s 1,300 acre arable unit. James’ enthusiasm and innovation was clear, as he explained his approach and ideology to the conference.

David Barnes, Deputy Director for Agriculture and Rural Development returned to speak to our conference for a second time. David set out his role, and Scotland’s role, in the talks and decision making processes which are ongoing in Brussels ahead of the latest reforms to the Common Agricultural Policy. He indicated that it may now be 2015 before any new subsidy payment regime is in place.

Our final speaker, Professor Allan Buckwell, praised Scotland for getting it’s voice on CAP reform issues heard in Europe – other much larger countries, including England were ignored he claimed! He spoke out against continued support for Less Favoured Areas, when food could be produced more effectively on better land.

EQ would like to thank the speakers, our co-sponsors, and the delegates for making the conference a resounding success. We look forward to next year’s event.