Loans payments are now underway to farmers and crofters in Scotland who are eligible for up to 90% of their CAP Basic and Greening 2018 payment under the national loan scheme announced earlier this summer.

Fergus Ewing, Rural Economy Secretary in the Scottish Government  said:

“As promised, I can confirm the first tranche of loan payments will begin to arrive in bank accounts in the coming days.

“This money will provide a cash injection worth £241 million into the rural economy, directly helping those feeling the effects of increased feed and fodder prices, and the adverse weather experienced by many across the year.

“I would encourage anyone who has yet to accept a loan offer to consider it carefully and respond as quickly as possible.

“For those farmers and crofters yet to receive a loan offer, I would like to put their minds at ease that offers are still being made once eligibility checks have been completed.

“I am confident  the majority of all eligible claimants will have received an offer no later than 31 October, and be able to receive their loan payment shortly after they accept the loan offer, demonstrating my absolute commitment to support our rural business and communities.”

10,684 farmers and crofters will receive payment under the scheme. The National Basic Payment Support Scheme (NBPSS) was set up to support farmers and crofters due to the adverse weather conditions affecting many in the industry earlier on this year. For more information visit Rural Payments and Services