Rural economies are set for a boost this week as livestock and arable producers will receive their Single Farm Payments.
The scheme is the replacement for historic arable and livestock direct support schemes in Scotland and this is the third year of operation.
And this year around 20,000 producers will receive the payments totalling £460 million – up £88 million on last year because of the Euro exchange rate.
Rural Affairs Secretary Richard Lochhead said: “These payments are always vital but never more so than in tough economic times. These prompt payments are another example of this Government delivering for hard-pressed rural businesses.
“What’s more our payment timetable is ahead of the UK Government’s, meaning Scottish farmers will be reaping the benefits of their Single Farm Payments quicker than their counterparts in the south.”
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