Unions welcome new ceiling on direct payments
FARMING unions have welcomed the Welsh Government’s announcement of a direct payment ceiling that will ensure Basic Payments Scheme (BPS) payments in 2021 remain at the same level as in 2020.
Lesley Griffiths, Welsh Government Minister for Environment, Energy and Rural Affairs, has announced total direct payment ceiling of £238m for the 2021 BPS.
In a written statement, the minister said she had “prioritised support” for the sector to help with the challenges facing rural communities as a result of the UK leaving the EU and the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. The total direct payment ceiling mirrors the level of support provided to farmers in 2020.
FUW president Glyn Roberts said: “We very much welcome the minister’s confirmation that she intends to provide financial security for farming families and the tens of thousands of rural businesses they support at a time of unprecedented uncertainty.”
NFU Cymru president John Davies said: “We very much welcome the announcement from the Minister for Environment, Energy and Rural Affairs that BPS payments to the industry in 2021 will be maintained at the levels paid in 2020. As a union, we have stressed to Welsh Government that the BPS is crucial to maintaining the supply of safe, high quality and affordable food to all in society. Never has this been more important than as the nation continues to battle against the effect of the Coronavirus.
“The year ahead presents unprecedented challenges for our sector, as our relationship with the EU market is about to change and the long-term impact of Covid-19 on food supply systems is still unknown.
“The announcement from the minister is a welcome assurance to the nation’s farmers at a very difficult time.
“As well as providing security to farming businesses, this announcement is a boost for our rural businesses and communities, also, as Welsh farms provide the economic, social and cultural foundation of our rural communities.
“Although there is still much uncertainty ahead for Welsh agriculture, the news that funding levels for the 2021 BPS will be maintained provides clarity and stability in the short term and will go some way to helping equip farmers for the continuing challenges ahead.”