Less favoured area payments begin tomorrow

Payments from the Less Favoured Area Support Scheme are due to start arriving in farmers’ bank accounts from tomorrow, Friday, March 15.

The Scottish Government has authorised payment of 10,190 claims to farmers and crofters working in some of the most challenging conditions in Europe, worth £56 million — around 86 per cent of the total £65.5 funding for the scheme.

Rural affairs secretary Richard Lochhead said: “Poor weather and rising costs have combined to make these challenging times for Scotland’s farmers and crofters – that’s even more true for those working in areas of natural disadvantage.

“I am sure this start to payments under the Less Favoured Area Support Scheme — on the same day as last year — will be welcomed as it will inject badly needed funds into our rural communities.

“Officials will continue to work hard to ensure the remaining payments are made as quickly as possible as we recognise that support payments such as LFASS and Single Farm Payment provide vital cash for many of Scotland’s farm businesses.”