Most land reform proposals received over 70 per cent support from respondents, according to the consultation analysis published yesterday.

The analysis showed that:

* 75 per cent of respondents agreed with the proposal to set up a Land Reform Commission

* 87 per cent agreed with the proposal to introduce a land rights and responsibilities policy

* 88 per cent agreed with the proposal to improve information on land, its value and its ownership

* 71 per cent agreed with the proposal to remove the exemption from business rates for shooting and deerstalking.

The recent consultation on land reform received 1269 responses from organisations, individuals and campaigns.

Minister for Environment, Climate Change and Land Reform Dr Aileen McLeod said: "Land is one of our most valuable assets and our vision for land reform is for a stronger relationship between the people of Scotland and the land of Scotland, where ownership and use of the land delivers greater public benefits.

"Through the Land Reform Bill, one of our key aims is to remove barriers to communities' sustainable development by ensuring greater collaboration between communities and land owners."

New scientific advice body for EU Commission

The European Commission has announced that a new body will be established to provide scientific advice.

In November 2014, European Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker abolished the post of Chief Scientific Adviser to the Commission, held by Scottish biologist Professor Anne Glover. Mr Juncker then tasked the Commissioner for research, Carlos Moedas, to put forward suggestions for how scientific advice could still be put forward.

On Wednesday, President Juncker and Commissioner Moedas met with a high-level group of independent scientists who will now be responsible for coordinating national academies and other scientific bodies in providing advice to the Commission.

Market round-up

The Cumberland and Dumfriesshire Farmers Mart sold 4738 prime hoggs in Longtown on Thursday to a top of £100 per head and 213p per kg to average 181p (+0.3p on the week), while 201 prime lambs peaked at £97 and 251p to level at 195p (-11.4p).

The 3159 cast sheep forward saw heavy ewes sell to £148 for Texels and average £102.74 (-£3.59), while light ewes peaked at £95 for Cheviots and levelled at £66.48 (-£2.34). Rams sold to £188 for a Texel and averaged £115.75 (-£9.54).