THE James Hutton Institute’s Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Science Professor Deb Roberts has been appointed to the board of the Scottish Land Commission (SLC).
The Commission’s role is to stimulate fresh thinking and change in how Scotland, as a nation, owns and uses land, and to advise the Scottish Government on an ongoing programme of land reform.
Professor Roberts trained as an agricultural economist and, prior to moving into her current role at the Hutton, her research focussed on understanding how agricultural and environmental policies affect economic development and social wellbeing in rural areas. She holds an Honorary Chair in Real Estate at the University of Aberdeen.
“It is a huge honour and privilege to be joining the Scottish Land Commission as a commissioner and to have the opportunity to build on the progress made by my predecessors,” says Professor Roberts.
“The importance of land for Scotland’s economy, environment and society has never been clearer and we are at a critical stage in the Land Reform process. I look forward to collaborating with my colleagues in shaping Scotland’s land policies for the benefit of all.”
Professor Roberts joins new SLC chair Michael Russell and Dr Craig Mackenzie on the board as new Land Commissioners.
They were appointed by Scottish Ministers and replace outgoing Chair, Andrew Thin, and Commissioners Megan MacInnes and Professor David Adams.
The commission’s current focus will see it continue to advise on opportunities for reforms in how land is owned and used, including the forthcoming land reform bill, as well as providing leadership to shape responsible land ownership in practice.
For a full announcement from the SLC on the new appointments, see: New-look board announced to help drive land reform – News – News & Events – Scottish Land Commission
