Timing of BPS payments

We recently wrote to Minister of State for Farming, Food and the Marine Environment, George Eustice asking him to support the  RPA so that  the Agency can begin making payments on 1st December, when the payment window opens. But we noted that while early payments are appreciated, the negative consequences of rushing the process could be considerable.

We proposed one of two options:
1. An interim payment is made in December 2015 for the non common land element of a claimant’s BPS. The common land element is then made once the maps are finalised and eligibility for naked hectares and extra entitlements has been made
2. As above but in addition a partial commons payment is made based on say 50% of the expected claim for common land.

In his letter of response Mr Eustice agrees that he situation is complicated. They are looking into a number of options and aim to finalise the position in July. They also appreciate FCLs willingness to engage.

Both letters can be downloaded here.