NFU Scotland has welcomed the extension to the deadline for applications to the new Land Management Contract Menu Scheme. The Union has been in discussion with the Scottish Executive in recent weeks over the tight timescale for farmers to apply to the scheme. 

Applications to the 17 measures under the scheme were due by 16 May, however this has now been extended to 6 June. NFUS has been operating a helpline (0131 472 4015) for its members who have questions over the scheme and it has become clear that many farmers would appreciate a deadline extension. 

The most common reasons cited are a lack of time to consider the new measures, priority being given to the completion of the IACS forms and a shortage of professional advisors because most are being used to assist with the Single Farm Payment paperwork. NFUS is, however, reminding its members that the deadline extension is just for the LMC Menu Scheme.

  The IACS deadline remains 16 May and anyone failing to meet this will face penalties or the loss of their Single Farm Payment forever. NFUS President John Kinnaird said: “This is a very sensible move by the Executive and farmers will appreciate it.  Farmers across the country are trying to get to grips with the new paperwork and rules attached to the Single Farm Payment. 

Some will also still be considering applications to the National Reserve, so the launch of this new LMC Menu Scheme has not come at the best time. “However, the scheme is important and if a three-week extension deadline provides farmers with more opportunity to consider the options and apply then it is well worth a small delay in the timetable. “For anyone who has still not completed their IACS forms, there is a week left.  Anyone in that situation should put the LMC details to one side for the moment and get on with the Single Farm Payment paperwork.  It is simply too important to put off to the last minute.”

NFUS has also welcomed clarification on the rules for claiming support for farm visits, talks and training measures.  There was concern that activity between March 31 and May 15 next year would be excluded from the LMC Menu Scheme as this is the gap between the LMC claims deadline and the start of the scheme year.  This time of year is the busiest period for school visits to farms as they are generally organised at the start of the summer school term. 

NFUS raised the issue with the Executive last week and has welcomed news that activity during this six-week period will still qualify for support. NFU Scotland's LMC helpline will be open until 6 June deadline.  Members can call on 0131 472 4015.