NFU SCOTLAND is urging Scotland’s farmers and crofters to respond to the BPS and Greening Loan Scheme offers ahead of the October 20 deadline.

The National Basic Payment Scheme Support Scheme 2017 loan offer letters were issued by Scottish Government at the end of September, giving applicants the opportunity, by opting in, to secure up to 90% of their anticipated basic support through a loan.

Offers were initially made to more than 16,000 businesses and the union understands around 10,000 farmers have replied, opting into the loan scheme. SGRPID expect payments to be made from November to those who apply before the deadline.

Union director of policy Jonnie Hall said: “While the response rate to the loan letter is good, this is a nudge to those still to opt in that they have to act now and get their replies in if they wish to be considered for the first run of loan payments.

“This is proving to be a difficult and challenging autumn for farmers and crofters and the reality is that a long, costly winter lies ahead. This loan scheme gives farmers and crofters the opportunity to opt-in for a loan that will go some significant way to easing the cashflow worries that will already be building.”

Rural economy secretary Fergus Ewing commented: “The offer of an interest free loan is a key part of this Government's commitment to put CAP payments on a more secure footing and to put the needs of farmers and crofters first. That plan also seeks to substantially improve customer service and experience through a series of specific and sustainable measures.

“Anyone who has received a loan offer and hasn’t replied yet, should return their opt-in slip in the prepaid envelope supplied or via email to NationalBPSScheme@gov.scot ," he said

"Slips received after the October 20 deadline will still receive payment, but early payment cannot be guaranteed," he added. "We will continue to make offers to the remaining eligible businesses, but would encourage them not to wait until the last possible moment before replying to our offer.”