Suckler farmers are to receive £103.48 for mainland born calves and £146.87 for island born calves through the Scottish Suckler Beef Support Scheme (SSBSS). The 370,000 calves to be paid this April represents a decline of 2.5% on the year.
Hugh Fraser, NFUS Livestock chair said: “The industry will welcome the payment, particularly in the face of current rocking costs. Every penny is needed in farm businesses. It is a good scheme as it rewards efficiency on farm since the payment is on a living calf as opposed to the suckler cow.
The number of claims has fallen 2.5% on the year
“It is disappointing though to see 248 fewer herds claiming in Scotland and a 2.5% reduction in calves claimed. This is an ongoing trend in recent years but the cost crisis could increase the pace. Farmers lack any control over market prices to deal with rising costs so on going support is needed for the beef sector.”
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