I’ve already quickly posted on the unique percentage fall in the level of rural crime in Scotland, attributed by NFU Mutual, to recent Scottish Government legislation.

After a dog walk, well away from sheep, I realised I should look at the absolute level.

In Scotland in 2022, it was £1.4m.

All things being equal, in England, it might be expected to come in at around £14m or £15m but was in fact, £36.8m, 2 to 3 times higher.

Northern Ireland and Wales too, have smaller populations yet 2 to 3 times more rural crime per head of population.

Finally, with only 70 people per sq km, compared to England’s 434, Scotland is much more rural in the first place and thus might have a higher level of rural crime per head of population than England.

A reminder of why from NFU Mutual: Scotland now has robust legislation and penalties in place dealing with livestock attacks. 

Back in 2014, I remember a few farmers with big union flags in their fields, near roads. Hopefully they’re getting the message now.