51AVÊÓƵ

Scottish agricultural support payments held up by 'blu tack and sticky tape'

Jim Walker, chair of the Suckler Beef Climate Group Programme Board, said the Scottish Government's system for supporting farmers was ‘not fit for purpose' and that a decline in cattle numbers had placed a 'burden' on farmers

clock • 5 min read
Jim Walker, chair at Suckler Beef Climate Group Programme Board, said: "The computer system is knackered and has been knackered for years. It has been held up by blue tack and sticky tape for years. It is a significant problem. Can anyone on this committee tell me any Government agency that has worked with zero inflation, zero increases in real-terms spending over the last 25 years like agriculture has? Agriculture and support payments are still in the dark ages because we have an illusion that we will be back in Europe again."
Image:

Jim Walker, chair at Suckler Beef Climate Group Programme Board, said: "The computer system is knackered and has been knackered for years. It has been held up by blue tack and sticky tape for years. It is a significant problem. Can anyone on this committee tell me any Government agency that has worked with zero inflation, zero increases in real-terms spending over the last 25 years like agriculture has? Agriculture and support payments are still in the dark ages because we have an illusion that we will be back in Europe again."

Agricultural support systems in Scotland have been criticised for being 'outdated and ineffective' in helping farmers deliver for food production, the climate emergency and nature recovery. During a...

To continue reading this article...

Join Farmers Guardian

  • Farmers Guardian is the ultimate resource for farmers, providing unparalleled coverage of the key issues and trends affecting the agricultural industry.
  • Real-Time Updates: Get the latest news and analysis on what's happening in the agricultural sector right now. From market trends to technological advancements.
  • Expert Insights for Smart Decision Making: We provide in-depth articles and features designed to help you navigate the ever-changing agricultural landscape. From crop management techniques to livestock breeding strategies, our goal is to arm you with the tools you need for profitable farming.
  • Join the Farmers Guardian community today and unlock a world of knowledge and opportunities for your agricultural business. We are dedicated to supporting farmers like you, and our mission is to empower you with the information and resources needed to thrive.

Register now Become a member

 

Already a member?

Login

2020, CASEIH MAGNUM 340

£±Ê°¿´¡

CASEIH OPTUM 300 CVX

£±Ê°¿´¡

2018 CASEIH PUMA 220 MC Powershift

£±Ê°¿´¡

More on Politics

Rural businesses face 'years and even decades' wait for planning permission

Rural businesses face 'years and even decades' wait for planning permission

Victoria Vyvyan, president of CLA, said the country's planning system was in ‘crisis' and it was ‘stagnating growth in the countryside'

Rachael Brown
clock 17 March 2025 • 5 min read
Ed Dungait: "Is this Labour Government deliberately attempting to destroy farming businesses, in order to free up land for other uses?"

Ed Dungait: "Is this Labour Government deliberately attempting to destroy farming businesses, in order to free up land for other uses?"

Mr Dungait is a tenant farmer from Morpeth in Northumberland and former chair of NYFC. He writes about why farmers feel hurt and betrayed since Labour came to power, his time in NFYFC and why clubs are vital to farming communities, and why he wants to enter the field of mainstream politics

clock 17 March 2025 • 5 min read
Tenant farmer misses out on compensation from Defra's Farming Recovery Fund

Tenant farmer misses out on compensation from Defra's Farming Recovery Fund

The Tenant Farmers Association said the Government's decision to make area-based payments without considering evidenced claims has resulted in more severely affected farmers losing out on compensation 'with no means of recourse'

Rachael Brown
clock 17 March 2025 • 3 min read