Summary
THE Crofting Reform Bill as it stands devalues crofting and crofters ("Crofting historian says the system of land tenure faces fight for survival", The Herald, August 12). It aims to keep the cost of a crofter's home within the reach of new entrants by depressing the purchase price with real burdens but makes no mention of the investment of the previous owner in his home and permanent improvements. It will take away the right to determine who inherits the family home. A crofter's creditor will have all the powers that were previously exercised by the landlords of old as homes and crofts become security for loans from the private sector.
Crofting is not thriving, but speculation, absenteeism and neglect are symptoms, not the cause. Will the proposed legislation, which seeks to enhance the burdens, impose financial penalties and increase bureaucracy, save the government money and crofting for the nation?See the full content of this document
Extract
Crofters Devalued
Hele...
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