Farmers missing deadline could lose out on cash (From Gazette & Herald)

Farmers missing deadline could lose out on cash

FARMERS in North Yorkshire confused by the complexities of the new Single Payment Scheme risk missing a deadline and receiving less than they should, the Country Land and Business Association (CLA) has warned.

The new Single Payment, linked to various environmental conditions, is initially largely based on a farmer's historical subsidy record in the three years between 2000 and 2002.

But some farmers may be entitled to more in certain cases of hardship or exceptional and unforeseeable events, provided they apply before the end of this month, advises the CLA, which has a regional office in Easingwold.

Applications to the Rural Payments Agency (RPA) can be made on the basis of reduced production under agri-environment schemes during the reference period which resulted in the amounts being lower than they would have been.

Land taken out of production because of intervention by a statutory authority, like the laying of a pipeline, or through other exceptional circumstances may also lead to an adjustment of the payment.

The application for amendment of the reference years can be made on the RPA's form SP2, or for advice contact the RPA Customer Service Centre on (0845) 6018045.

Updated: 14:35 Wednesday, January 19, 2005