Commenting on the announcement that Highland and Islands Enterprise (HIE) is to continue supporting forestry cooperation in the Highlands, Liberal Democrat spokesperson for the Environment Liam McArthur MSP said:

"The continued support of the Highlands and Islands Forest Industry Cluster is welcome. The forestry industry forms a critical part of the Highlands and Islands economy and must be protected at all costs.

"For that reason, Ministers must heed calls from across the region and immediately ditch plans to auction off our forests. Whatever the question is, selling off Scotland's family silver is not the answer and would do untold damage to the highland economy."

Local MSP John Farquhar Munro added:

"Forestry commission land is a natural and recreational asset to the Highlands. Selling off this land is not in the public interest. It should be held in trust so that future generations can share in the economic and health benefits we enjoy today."