§ Mr. SwayneTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will take into account the financial situation of rural enterprises in setting target dates for payments under the countryside stewardship scheme at the end of this year. [16147]
§ Alun MichaelIn recognition of the problems experienced by farmers hard hit by foot and mouth disease, we have specifically extended the deadline for the receipt of countryside stewardship scheme claims to 31 December, to allow more time for completion of claim forms. We are currently processing the claims so far received as quickly as available resources permit, to ensure payments are made as soon as practicable. Our published aim is to pay claims within two months of receipt.
§ Mr. SwayneTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs when she will announce the target date for the payment of amounts under the countryside stewardship scheme at the end of this calendar year. [16146]
§ Alun MichaelOur published aim for the payment of claims under the countryside stewardship schemes is two months from the date of receipt.
§ Mr. SwayneTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what representations she has had regarding timely payment of amounts under the countryside stewardship scheme; and if she will make a statement. [16145]
§ Alun MichaelI have received no recent representations on this subject. Claims for this year's payments under the countryside stewardship scheme were invited from 1 October onwards. Our published aim is to make payments within two months of receipt and the Department is currently working hard to achieve this.