Single Farm Payment Progress Update

22nd December 2012

Over 90 per cent of Scotland’s Single Farm Payments have now been made, Rural Affairs Secretary Richard Lochhead confirmed today.

The latest figures show that 17,400 payments (92 per cent) have been made – putting £406 million into bank accounts across Scotland.

Mr Lochhead said the cash would provide a welcome boost for Scottish farmers and crofters, many of whom have faced difficult conditions in 2012.

Mr Lochhead said:“The Single Farm Payment always provides a much needed shot in the arm for farmers and wider rural communities. I’m sure it will be particularly welcome this year given the weather conditions many farmers have endured.

“Staff have worked tirelessly to ensure that as many payments as possible can be made as quickly as possible and I’m pleased that over 90 per cent of claims have already been paid.

“Clearly our priority now is to pay the remaining claims as quickly as possible and we will be working with producers to resolve any problems. In the meantime, I would urge anyone whose claim is still outstanding to respond promptly to any requests that will help us to make payment.

“It’s also worth remembering that Scottish farmers can get early access to payment information - up to a week before it goes into their bank - by signing up for Rural Payments Online. This also allows claimants to apply online, with 24 hour access, instant receipts and dedicated helpdesk support. Over 2,000 people have already viewed their online information this year and, even if you didn't submit your application online, it's not too late to benefit.”

Payments are being issued to producers who have successfully passed the Scottish Government’s eligibility checks. Because of European Commission conditions attached to payments, farmers and crofters who have outstanding eligibility issues cannot be paid until these have been resolved.

The Single Farm Payment Scheme is the replacement for historic arable and livestock direct support schemes. Farmers applied for the Scheme in May 2012.

The European regulations fix a payment window that means payments can be made between December 1, and June 30, in the following year.