Sir, – Last week The Scottish Farmer published an article claiming it is up to the Scottish Government to define the relevant obligations for farmers as regards land covered with bracken to receive single farm payments.

 

The rules have not changed, with EC regulations stipulating land must be arable, permanent pasture or permanent crop to be eligible for SFP payments. EC auditor visits during 2009 made it clear thick and impenetrable gorse or monocultural bracken should not be included in claims for SFP payments.

Following this feedback from EC audit and monitoring of inspection results, the Scottish Government has been working closely with stakeholders, including NFUS, to ensure applicants are aware (through public meetings, press articles – including in The Scottish Farmer, and guidance) of the eligibility criteria, as a small number of claimants have not met the eligibility criteria on land claimed to support entitlements.

Meanwhile, the Scottish Government fights very hard to ensure mosaic gorse and penetrable bracken are eligible, as we take the view if it can be grazed it can be claimed!

 

Drew Sloan

Chief Agricultural Officer

The Scottish Government