Halt the beef scheme

“We would encourage members to look at their own calving interval on MyHerdStats and remind them that the announcement reiterates the scheme will be delivered on the individual cow basis rather than herd average. It is a measure designed to improve industry efficiency.

“We note that it will be summer before further clarity through the extensive guidance on new scheme rules will be published. However, Scottish Government has indicated that there is the potential for the calving interval figure to reduce in future years. Given that is the case, we would want the final scheme detail to include a comprehensive and clear clause for ‘ force majeure’ to assist those herds where circumstances out with their control impact on their ability to hit the calving interval target.”.

Rural affairs secretary Mairi Gougeon said: “As we have said for some time, support for farming in Scotland is changing. From 2025, farmers and crofters will have to deliver new things in return for basic payments. These changes will allow us to continue to produce high quality food and to do so in a way that helps us to tackle climate change and enhance nature.

“As we continue the transition to a new agricultural support framework, we want to make sure that farmers and crofters know exactly what they need to do to prepare for this change. Through our Agricultural Reform route map, supported with extensive engagement with the sector, we are making sure the sector is kept informed of key updates to future support.

“It is clear that many farmers and crofters have already begun this journey successfully. I would urge all farmers and crofters to look at the available information, to ensure they are ready for the changes to come.”