The Scottish government has published an independent analysis of the responses to the consultation on proposals for Crofting Law Reform, together with those responses where consent to publish was given.

The consultation covered potential legislative changes to:

• support entry to crofting
• to clarify the community aspect of crofting law
• to promote use of common grazings, including for environmental purposes
• to strengthen adherence to crofters’ duties
• to modify the Crofting Commission’s regulatory roles and powers
• to make simplifications and corrections to current legislation

More than 160 responses were received during the three-month consultation, with a further 257 people attending 15 events across crofting counties in July and August, to debate the key proposals.

Minister for agriculture Jim Fairlie said: “Most of the government’s proposals were well supported by the consultation responses, though I recognise that some proposals received less strong backing.  We will give full consideration to all the responses and will discuss key issues further with the Crofting Bill Group.

“I am grateful to everyone who took time to share their views and look forward to continuing to work with crofting communities to ensure that the sector is supported and can attract a new generation.”