§ Mr. Ron DaviesTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland how many farmers in Scotland are currently eligible for ewe annual premium payments; how many claims for payment have been received; how many have been paid; and when those outstanding claims will be paid.
§ Sir Hector MonroI have no figures regarding the number of sheep farmers who are eligible to apply. Some 17,000 claims have been received under the 1993 scheme and about 11,500 have been paid the first and second advances, together with the less favoured area supplement where appropriate. Outstanding eligible claims will be paid as soon as possible.