ARISTOCRATIC Tory MSP Sir Edward Mountain is attempting to scupper plans to expand powers to seize Scottish forests for development.

The Highlands & Islands MSP — a landowner, baronet and former army officer — has tabled an amendment to scrap part of the Scottish government’s forestry Bill.

Under the Bill, Holyrood ministers will take over powers from forestry commissioners. There would be a new power to compulsorily purchase land for “sustainable development.”