With less than two weeks to go before the BPS deadline, the Rural Payments Agency revealed this week that it has received over half of all applications.

The first application year for the Basic Payments Scheme has been beset with problems, with RPA being forced to revert to accepting paper forms for some aspects of the application and missing targets for providing information, which NFU claimed has led to uncertainty and concern amongst farmers.

On Tuesday, RPA announced that it had received 44,800 applications for the Scheme. The deadline for claims is 15th June, and the Agency urged all farmers who have not yet submitted their claims to do so as soon as possible. Applications can still be posted, or delivered to RPA’s 50 drop in centres around the country.

The Agency has provided more information for farmers on its website, including a checklist to ensure farmers get their claims right, information on greening elements and further advice in the form of a top tips publication.

NFU, too, advised farmers to complete their BPS applications as soon as possible this week, pointing out that the application will probably take longer than last year’s SPS claims.

RPA’s Mobile Support Units continue to travel around the country, to offer help to farmers who require assistance with their claims. This week, units also held stalls at agricultural shows, including Cumbria’s North Sheep event on Wednesday (3rd June), and the Royal Cornwall Show, which is being held between Thursday and Saturday (4th-6th June).

RPA will also have a stall at the Cereals Event, being held on 10th and 11th June.

More information is available from the RPA here.