PRE-EMPTIVE RIGHT TO BUY

Results of the National Farmers Union of Scotland’s survey of all members in respect of a pre-emptive right for fully secured farm tenants to buy their holdings have been announced.

The consultation showed 82% of respondants in favour of the move which would entitle a secure tenant first refusal when a landlord decides to sell. However, two thirds of respondants rejected a proposal for an absolute right to buy which would allow a tenant to force the landlord to sell.

Over 2,500 responses were received to the questionnaire from all sectors, including owner occupiers, secure tenants, landowners and tenants on limited partnership arrangements.