Single Farm Payments under way

Single Farm Payments are due to start arriving in farmers’ bank accounts today, Monday, December 3.

According to the Scottish Government, around 14,200 producers will receive their Single Farm Payments today – an increase of around 4 per cent on 2011 – injecting approximately £303 million into the rural economy. This is the first day payments are permitted by European regulations.

Rural affairs secretary Richard Lochhead said: “In the current economic climate these support payments are vital for Scottish farmers, making the difference between profit and loss for many farm businesses. So this year’s payments should be seen as clear evidence that this government is supporting Scotland’s farmers in tough economic times.

“Our priority now will be to work with producers to resolve any problems and pay remaining claims as quickly as possible. I would urge all concerned to ensure that they respond promptly to any requests that will help us to settle their claims.”