The UK Government has confirmed £3 billion of farm support will be paid in 2020, of which Scotland’s share is £472 million.
Chancellor Sajid Javid guaranteed the cash will be used to support the agricultural industry once the UK leaves the EU and the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) next year.
Mr Javid said farmers could enter the new year with confidence “that they have our backing and will be able to thrive after Brexit”, and guaranteed the current annual budget to the industry would continue in every year of the Parliament.
He added: “When we leave the EU and are freed from the CAP we will be able to support our vital rural communities – who are a cornerstone of life in the UK – with a fairer and less bureaucratic system.”
Environment Secretary Theresa Villiers said: “Outside the EU we will have a simpler, fairer funding system, one that rewards farmers for enhancing our environment and safeguarding our high animal welfare standards.
“We are committed to making sure our rural communities feel the benefits of Brexit and will ensure our farmers get a better deal,” the environment secretary added.
Remaining EU funding under CAP Pillar 2, for rural development and environmental projects, will continue until the current EU funding is used up or 2023, whichever is earliest.
nnicolson@thecourier.co.uk
