Liberal Democrat Deputy Rural Affairs spokesman and MSP for the South of Scotland Jim Hume has revealed confusion over jobs at the Forestry Commission Scotland (FCS).

The FCS have instigated a jobs freeze, following UK Government policy, despite the fact they are the devolved forestry body, completely accountable to the Scottish Government.

Commenting, Jim Hume said:

“Last week the Environment Secretary told the Low-Carbon Economy conference that he anticipated an increase in jobs in forestry, as well as the economic contribution forests make.

“They are a crucial renewable resource, and a central part of meeting Scotland’s ambitious renewable energy targets.

“But the Forestry Commission Scotland tells me they have initiated a jobs freeze because of UK Government policy.

“The Finance Committee has sought clarity and leadership on quango jobs. This is an example of where the Scottish Government have been unclear.

“I have written to Roseanna Cunningham to confirm that the Forestry Commission Scotland is directly accountable to her, as the Scottish Forestry Minister.

“Either Roseanna Cunningham has lost control of the FCS, or they have mistakenly followed UK Government policy.

“I want to know the reasons behind this apparent break with Scottish Government policy, as I’m sure so do those eager for a job.”