The Scottish deadline for farmers and crofters to submit their Single Application Form (SAF) has been extended, under flexibility from the European Union, until June 15.
Rural Affairs Secretary Richard Lochhead confirmed the Scottish Government will allow farmers to benefit from the flexibility announced by the EU and expected to be approved next week, given the concerns raised by farmers and crofters about the complexity of the new system.
The Scottish Government will make every effort to stick to the payment schedule.
Mr Lochhead has highlighted that we need Europe to give flexibility on the inspection regime that has already been asked for by member states.
Technical experts are continuing work to fix issues with the new Rural Payments and Services online system as quickly as possible after they have been raised.
Mr Lochhead said: "Delivery of the new CAP (Common Agricultural Policy) is an absolute priority for the Scottish Government. The system is complex and has presented significant challenges in Scotland and across Europe - as shown by Commissioner Hogan 's announcement that a four week extension to the application window should be allowed.
"As part of our efforts to make payments as soon as possible we will look at all flexibilities permitted within the EU rules and I strongly encourage the EU to give additional flexibility, particularly around the inspection regime which has already been called for by other member states.
"Of course, paper copies of the forms have always been and continue to be available to farmers and crofters."
Market round-up
The Cumberland and Dumfriesshire Farmers Mart sold 14 prime heifers in Dumfries on Wednesday to a top of 235.5p per kg and an average of 215.1p.
There were 62 OTM cattle presented in the rough ring when beef cows averaged 134.6p and dairy cows levelled at 113.2p.
The firm also sold 494 prime hoggs to a top of £105.50 per head and 205p per kg to average 190.1p (-11.8p on the week).
A small show of 115 cast sheep saw heavy ewes sell to £160 for Texels and average £112.86 (+54p), while light ewes peaked at £92.50 for Cheviots and levelled at £74.27 (+£2.26).
United Auctions sold 893 store heifers at Stirling on Wednesday to a top of 279.8p and an average of 225.2p (+10.9p), while 1191 store, beef-bred bullocks peaked at 323.8p and levelled at 242.7 (+10p). One-hundred-and-forty-eight store, B&W bullocks sold to 184p and averaged 167.2p (-5.4p).
In the rough ring 96 cows averaged 134.7p.
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