§ Mr. ÖpikTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what factors led to the delay in payment of premiums by his Department to farmers; and what measures he proposes to ensure that similar delays do not occur. [22462]
§ Mr. Win GriffithsProcessing of EC funded scheme payments has been delayed by the need to comply with additional EC data requirements. Any UK payments made without this supporting information would have been disallowed. The necessary computer reprogramming work is now largely complete but has unfortunately led to delays. Work is underway to implement improved information systems for the Welsh Office Agriculture Department.