Minister for Agriculture and Connectivity
Jim Fairlie was appointed Minister for Agriculture and Connectivity in February 2024.
Responsibilities
Supports the Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Land Reform and Islands and Cabinet Secretary for Transport
Specific responsibilities are:
Rural
- agriculture
- animal health and welfare
- wildlife management and crime
- natural resources and peatland
- crofting
- rural portfolio impacts of Brexit and Retained EU Law Act
- allotments and community food growing
- wider set of islands-related responsibilities, including carbon neutral islands
Transport
- aviation and air services (including HIAL)
- island connectivity
- bus services and concessionary fares
- Scottish canals
Biography
Jim Fairlie was born in Perth and has lived and worked in the area all his life. He began his career as a shepherd before becoming a hill farmer. He built a successful food and events-based catering business and has extensive experience in urban and rural affairs. He was elected to represent Perthshire South and Kinross-shire at the 2021 Scottish Parliament election.
Read more about Jim Fairlie on the Scottish Parliament website.
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