WIREDGOV

Scotland's farmers are being urged to double check that they have only claimed eligible land for support on their Single Application Form (SAF) 2011.

Rural Affairs Secretary Richard Lochhead reminded farmers that it was their responsibility to ensure that claims were only submitted for eligible land. He suggested they should pay particular attention where there had been a change of use of the permanent or seasonal land they had claimed.

Mr Lochhead said:

"Support through the Common Agricultural Policy can often make the difference between profit and loss for our farmers. That is why it's vital that the information used for calculating payments is accurate and up-to-date.

"Including ineligible land could lead to severe penalties from the European Commission and there is very little margin for error.

"Farmers are responsible for ensuring they only claim eligible land. If the claimed land becomes ineligible they must tell their SGRPID area office about the change of use - for example land now being used for the many road building or utility projects around Scotland.

"The vast majority of farmers already complete their SAF correctly but it is important that these high standards are maintained to protect future payments."

If farmers wish to make changes to their SAF they must apply in writing to their local area office.

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