On Wednesday, the Rural Payments Agency (RPA) said it would continue to support farmers with late BPS applications still to hand in.

RPA staff worked until midnight on the eve of the 15th June deadline and 85,178 farmers had submitted their claims before the deadline. However, a significant number of expected claims are still outstanding.

A further 183 claims were submitted between 16th and 23th June - the first week of the penalty window during which farmers can still submit claims but face a one percent penalty for each working day the claim is late.

The penalty window ends on midnight of 10th July and the RPA is contacting farmers who have been emailed a BP5 form but are yet to make a claim and others who are eligible but have yet to apply.

Speaking at the National Farmers Union (NFU) Council meeting, RPA Chief Executive Mark Grimshaw said, “The RPA has provided an unprecedented level of support and help to farmers claiming for this year’s BPS. I’m very grateful for the support the NFU, other membership organisations, the wider industry and farming media have given us over the last few weeks in getting information out to claimants.

“I would like to take this opportunity to remind those who would still like to claim, or those who would like to make changes on claims they have submitted, that they can do so until midnight on 10 July.

“Forms and guidance are still available on the GOV.UK website and the helpline is ready to take your call.”

Support is still available

Farmers needing help and support can continue to call the Rural Payments helpline on 03000 200 301, Monday to Friday, 8:30am-5pm.

Six drop-in centres will also remain open until 10th July. These are located at RPA offices in Newcastle, Carlisle, Workington, York, Reading and Exeter.

The latest information on how to claim or amend applications in the penalty claim period can also be read at www.gov.uk/rpa/bps.