The issue of cashflow was top of the agenda when a farming union met with the Committee of Scottish Bankers (CSCB).
With average farm incomes falling and ongoing concerns over delivery of agricultural support, cashflow dominated talks when NFU Scotland met with the CSCB.
Poor farmgate prices, rising input costs and falling support levels have been blamed as figures show Scottish farm incomes halved in a year.
The meeting took place at the Rural Centre, near Edinburgh this week (10 May).
NFU Scotland met with the banking delegation which included Sandy Hay (Bank of Scotland), Brian Murphy (RBS), Alex Young (Clydesdale), Neil Wilson (HSBC), Wilma Low (TSB) and Michael Downey (CSCB).
'Uncertainties'
Speaking after the meeting, President Andrew McCornick said Scottish agriculture has 'challenges and uncertainties' facing the industry – both currently and in the months and years ahead.
“Higher costs, volatile commodity prices and support payments delays are creating cashflow problems and a greater reliance on a host of creditors to help farmers and crofters through difficult times. These uncertainties have a clear impact on confidence and farm businesses planning.
“The need for clarity and certainty going forward, specifically in the context of Brexit, is crucial as it will allow businesses to work with the banking sector to plan ahead.
“There was an agreement round the table that change is inevitable, but for all businesses, there is recognition that change must be managed.
“Overall, this was a very useful and constructive meeting with the industry’s main banking providers, and there was a willingness to work together to secure a more profitable future for farmers and crofters.”
