Rob Gibson

AN extensive survey by Scottish Land & Estates (SLE) conducted in 2014 reported that most members, 67% of the 277 sampled, were “engaged in sporting one way or another”. An analysis for the Scottish Government consultation on the draft Land Reform Bill showed 71% of 983 respondents favoured the return of shooting rates. The question had “provoked strong feelings” with 50 of the 51 estates replying opposed.

THE Growth Commission report has been debated three times at Ayr, Aviemore and now Edinburgh. I attended the SNP National Assembly at Aviemore, one of more than 200 activists gathered to have their say. I detected a strong current running through the gathering. It sought to build the independence case from communities upwards.