Amazingly farmers have started to receive Single Farm Payment Entitlement Statements. These are, nevertheless, largely coming through as unvalidated, with mapping and Customer Registration issues still outstanding, although it is hoped that payments will be made shortly.

Statements have been issued in Euros with payments in most cases to be made in £s sterling. Parties should apply an exchange rate of 0.68 pence per Euro and remember that there will be a further 5% withheld as part and parcel of Modulation, largely retained to fund Environmental Stewardship Schemes.

Established Entitlements will, once again, need to be activated this year before 15th May, on an equivalent amount of ground owned/occupied, so as to receive full payment without penalties.

The process is likely to be further complicated by, in some cases, the transfer of Entitlements as well as changes in the whereabouts, make up and extent of land owned/occupied. These changes will need to be noted on a pre populated RLE1 form which we recommend applicants request well in advance, even if only so as to have it sit on file, in the event of amendments or additions needing to be made. Further detail is available from Andrew Samuel and should you wish to discuss matters with him or make an appointment then please do not hesitate to contact us.