SCOTTISH RURAL economy secretary Fergus Ewing has met with game sector and country sports representatives to hear how their businesses are contributing to local economies.

During a visit to the annual Moy Game Fair, Mr Ewing highlighted how the game industry supported around 4400 full time equivalent jobs in rural Scotland, making a significant contribution to the rural economy. However, as ventures responsible for large areas of land, he stressed that they also have a significant role to play in working with others to support sustainable environmental management.

Mr Ewing said: "The rural economy is dependent on sustainable land management by responsible land owners and managers, in a way that ensures that the quality and variety of stock remains high, costs remain low, and the right balance is struck between conservation and rural access.

"Analysis shows that the direct Gross Value Added attributable to country sports is estimated to total £50 million, whilst the game industry is a major part of our vibrant food and drink sector. Ultimately it is everyone's responsibility to ensure that our natural assets are protected and enhanced.

"Most people and businesses involved in Scotland's country sports industry are playing their part in this, which is something that we should be rightly proud of, and the contribution made to Scotland's rural economy more widely celebrated," said Mr Ewing. "As Rural Economy Secretary, I'm always keen to take the opportunity to meet with representatives from that sector, to hear first-hand how industry is faring, and how all parts of rural Scotland can contribute to making a vibrant rural economy."