HL Deb 26 May 1993 vol 546 cc25-6WA
Lord Stanley of Alderley

asked Her Majesty's Government:

How many days farmers were given to complete their IACS form from the date of receipt to submission on 15th May, and during that period on what percentage of days, including half days, the following offices were closed:

  1. (a) Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food/Welsh Office Agricultural Department;
  2. (b) County libraries;
  3. (c) Ordnance Survey agents.

Earl Howe

Forms were distributed to farmers in England and Wales by first class post on 2nd April, and a few days earlier in Northern Ireland and Scotland. Most farmers would have received them by 5th April. This allowed 41 calendar days, including 15th May, for their completion and return.

Weekends and holidays accounted for 13½ days of this period, excluding Saturday 15th May, when all offices were open. This represents some 33 per cent. of the total time, assuming receipt on 5th April. However, some MAFF and WOAD staff worked over the weekend and holiday periods, and offices operated extended opening hours at other times. We do not have any information on the extent to which county libraries, which are the responsibility of local authorities, were closed over the period in question. Ordnance Survey agents are normally open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. from Monday to Saturday, but the precise arrangements are generally a matter for the individual agent. Many remained open for longer hours, including Sundays and Bank Holidays, in the period up to 15th May.