Farmers have been warned against making sexist jokes about Nicola Sturgeon in a bid to improve diversity in the industry. A hard-hitting report for the National Farmers’ Union in Scotland cited a “very offensive” remark about the former First Minister’s legs.
Racist and homophobic jokes were also flagged as inappropriate language to be avoided.
The NFU Scotland has published a report by former board member Caroline Millar on enhancing diversity and inclusion within the organisation. All fourteen recommendations were accepted by the union.
One section of the report focused on “discriminatory practices” and stated there had been a “few examples” that could warrant a claim against the union and affect its reputation.
Another part of centred on problematic language: “Some of the language examples could be used officially as sexual harassment or other forms of harassment.
“WhatsApp for example was brought up several times as being used for gossip, derogatory comments about staff or politicians and this should not be permitted. It also was putting people off using it.
The report gave eleven examples of language “deemed to be inappropriate”. This included sexist, racist and homophobic jokes and comments, “pub chat” and “derogatory” comments about a political party.
Another example focused on inappropriate comments at a meeting: “For example ‘Nicola Sturgeon, only good thing about her is her legs’ – very offensive, and it wasn’t called out by the Chair.” The report also said the phrase “farmer’s wife” should not be used.
NFU Scotland chief executive John Davidson said: “Publishing this report in full and committing to its recommendations sends a strong and positive signal that NFU Scotland is serious about diversity and inclusion across the organisation. We believe that by demonstrating leadership, reforming our operational structures, enhancing training and improving our operational practices, we can create an even more inclusive environment for all our members to get involved and flourish.
“When Caroline presented her report to the NFU Scotland Board, she said herself that there is no one single overnight solution to this issue and that is why I am pleased to see such a wide range of recommendations coming through from the review. Progressing the recommendations will take a big effort from everyone across the organisation, but I am committed to leading this from the front to ensure we succeed.
“Our membership is full of inspiring people and creating an environment where more of them are willing to get involved directly with the organisation can only be a good thing. That’s what we will focus on in the weeks and months ahead.”
Millar said: “Following the many hundreds of conversations I had with people across the country, I am pleased that the NFU Scotland Board of Directors have endorsed all of my recommendations and have agreed a timeline for delivery. I look forward to supporting NFU Scotland in this important area going forward.”
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