51AV视频

Scottish agricultural support payments held up by 'blu tack and sticky tape'

Jim Walker, chair of the Suckler Beef Climate Group Programme Board, said the Scottish Government's system for supporting farmers was 鈥榥ot fit for purpose' and that a decline in cattle numbers had placed a 'burden' on farmers

Chris Brayford
clock 鈥� 5 min read
Jim Walker, chair at Suckler Beef Climate Group Programme Board, said: "The computer system is knackered and has been knackered for years. It has been held up by blue tack and sticky tape for years. It is a significant problem. Can anyone on this committee tell me any Government agency that has worked with zero inflation, zero increases in real-terms spending over the last 25 years like agriculture has? Agriculture and support payments are still in the dark ages because we have an illusion that we will be back in Europe again."
Image:

Jim Walker, chair at Suckler Beef Climate Group Programme Board, said: "The computer system is knackered and has been knackered for years. It has been held up by blue tack and sticky tape for years. It is a significant problem. Can anyone on this committee tell me any Government agency that has worked with zero inflation, zero increases in real-terms spending over the last 25 years like agriculture has? Agriculture and support payments are still in the dark ages because we have an illusion that we will be back in Europe again."

Agricultural support systems in Scotland have been criticised for being 'outdated and ineffective' in helping farmers deliver for food production, the climate emergency and nature recovery. During a...

To continue reading...

Already a member? Login for full access.

New to Farmers Guardian? Register for 1 free article per week or become a member for unlimited access to essential farming news and insights.

article-img-580x358
Join Now

听

More on Politics

Farmland at risk from rapid solar expansion due to 'inconsistencies' in Environmental Impact Assessments
Politics

Farmland at risk from rapid solar expansion due to 'inconsistencies' in Environmental Impact Assessments

The Institute of Sustainability and Environmental Professionals (ISEP) says there needs to be a balance between tackling energy security and the climate crisis, our need for food security and preserving biodiversity and natural habitats

Alex Black
Alex Black
clock 12 January 2026 鈥� 3 min read
'Facts are being ignored' - Countryside in uproar over plans to ban trail hunting
Politics

'Facts are being ignored' - Countryside in uproar over plans to ban trail hunting

Before Christmas, the Government announced plans to ban trail hunting as part of its new Animal Welfare Strategy. However, the Countryside Alliance said it will not give up the fight to save the activity which is deep-rooted in tradition and vital to the rural economy

Chris Brayford
Chris Brayford
clock 10 January 2026 鈥� 7 min read
Government does not recognise farming's contribution, farmers say
Politics

Government does not recognise farming's contribution, farmers say

A Farmers Guardian survey has shown almost all farmers do not feel appreciated by the Government

Jane Thynne
clock 10 January 2026 鈥� 2 min read