This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Beef advance payments increased
11/09/2003
Rural Development Minister Ross Finnie
today announced increased advance payments for livestock
farmers following recent exceptionally dry weather.
The Scottish Executive is taking up
the option to increase advances on beef premia from 60 per
cent to 80 per cent.
This follows a European Commission
announcement on early support for farmers throughout Europe
affected by severe dry weather during the summer.
Mr Finnie said:
"I am aware of the difficulties facing
some farmers as a result of the exceptionally dry weather
experienced over the summer.
"As an important contributor to Scotland's rural
economy, pressure in the industry has wider implications
throughout our rural communities.
"The increase in advance payments we
are making available will help to improve the cash flow
situation for many farmers."
EC Regulations allow advance payments
on the Beef Special, Suckler Cow and Slaughter Premium
Schemes and the beef national envelope to be made
from October 16 with balances being paid by the end of the
following June.
The normal advance rate is 60 per cent
but for 2003-04 Member States are permitted to increase
advances up to 80 per cent.
The UK administrations will be making
advances at the maximum rate of 80 per cent.
The Rural Payments Agency will
announce when advance payments on each of the schemes will
begin.