|
| We're going to be making some changes to the Rural Issues newsletter in the coming weeks and we need your help to make it better than ever. Our edition at the end of April will be the last in the current format as we move to a new system for sending the newsletter out. We're making this change because the law around how we hold and use subscriber information is changing. This also means that, if you want to continue to hear from us, you will need to re-subscribe. |  |  |
|
| Farmers, crofters and land managers are being urged to submit their Single Application Form (SAF) online. This year's SAF window, where applicants submit claims for support under the Common Agricultural Policy's (CAP) Pillar 1 and 2 schemes, is now open and runs until midnight on 15 May 2018. |  | |
|
| To claim for this Scheme you must complete a Single Application Form (open from 15 March to 15 May) and indicate that you wish to continue your commitment for the Beef Efficiency Scheme. You must also claim enough Basic Payment Scheme hectares to activate your continuing commitment. |  | |
|
| Along with our helpline to call for advice and meetings to attend, the Scottish Farm Advisory Service has a wealth of online resources to support your business and to help it grow. This week, we've launched a series of farm business tools that will provide the vital advice and data you need. |  | |
|
| Uncertainty over future subsidies and the impact of Brexit is a key concern for many business owners in the UK, not least of all, those in the farming sector. |  | |
|
| The Scottish Land Commission's Tenant Farming Commissioner, Bob McIntosh, is to consult with key stakeholders on the findings from the review of the conduct of agents of landlords and tenants. Stakeholders are asked to comment on the findings of the research following the collection of evidence on the views and experiences of landlords and tenants regarding their business interactions with agents. |  | |
|
| Scotland's land reform body is calling for evidence about the impact of concentration of land ownership in Scotland, as it published a report and discussion paper on the issue on Thursday 22 March, 2018. The Scottish Land Commission research report looks at international approaches to limiting scale and concentration of land ownership. |  | |
|
| Overseas Scottish food and drink exports were worth approximately £6 billion in 2017 - almost £570 million more than 2016. Food exports were valued at about £1.6 billion - a rise of 15% (£214 million) during the same period. Exports of food to Europe were worth £1.1 billion after an increase of 13%, or £125 million. |  | |
|
| One of the largest ever Food Processing, Marketing and Co-operation (FPMC) grants has been awarded to food processing company Scotbeef. On a visit to their facility in Inverurie, Rural Economy Secretary Fergus Ewing announced that Scotbeef would receive a £4million FPMC grant. The award will contribute to a £17 million investment to fund a new abattoir and meat-processing facility. |  | |
| |
