A big step in securing the future of crofting as a way of life was taken yesterday after the Scottish Parliament endorsed the principles of the Crofting Reform Bill.

Presenting legislation designed to create modern, thriving crofting townships, Environment Minister Roseanna Cunningham said: "This is a defining moment for crofting. Today the Scottish Parliament had to choose between propping up a failing system or having the courage to take action and put in place a vision for the future of crofting to deliver growth and stronger communities.

"Delivering sustainable economic growth and strong communities depends on land being kept in crofting tenure and on crofts being made available to people who are willing to make a permanent contribution to these communities by living there and working the land.


"In supporting the principles of this bill, the parliament has indicated it will deliver the legislative framework needed to ensure that future generations have the opportunity to follow this traditional way of life."

The Bill, which is being scrutinised by Parliament, will:

* protect the rights of tenant crofters so that they may never again suffer abuses of power

* place a duty on all crofters, whether owner-occupier or tenant, to occupy and work the land,

* provide for a democratically accountable regulator that regulates crofting in everyone's interests

* protect croft land from speculation

* create an accurate, unambiguous Crofting Register that will clearly show land held in crofting tenure and provide greater security for all those with an interest in that land

The Crofting Reform (Scotland) Bill was introduced to Parliament on December 9, 2009. It follows the Crofting Reform etc. (Scotland) Bill in 2006 and Committee of Inquiry on Crofting in 2008.

Following today's Stage One debate, Parliament passed a motion supporting the principles of the Crofting Reform Bill.

Stage 2, which will consider the detail of the Crofting Reform (Scotland) Bill is likely to take place next month.

(GK)