RPA has enabled access to a new service for customers by working with farm software providers who have developed software that allows customers to submit their Single Payment Scheme (SPS) claim electronically.

Software packages that enable electronic submission of SPS Claims are now available from these providers. Claimants can choose the product that best suits their needs.

The electronic channel allows farmers or their agents to upload their pre-populated SPS claim data from RPA via the farm software package and to electronically submit the completed SPS claim data back to RPA.

Tony Cooper, Chief Executive of RPA said: “It‘s an important first step forward as SPS customers now have a choice in the way they deal with us. We aim to do more electronically in the future and are looking at how this claim service might be extended through other e-service arrangements.”

“In the meantime I’d like to thank our suppliers and everyone in the Agency who has worked so hard to support the successful delivery of this first step in our journey to give farmers and their agents greater access to RPA and our services electronically.”

RPA offered the opportunity for farm software providers to develop their software. Two providers agreed to work with RPA and develop the service. Once the packages passed tests to ensure the software worked securely with RPA systems, a controlled roll-out commenced.

The agency worked with a number of applicants, including the National Trust on the roll-out, which saw nearly 700 applicants submit their 2008 SPS claims electronically.

Caroline Fawcett, Customer Director explained: “From a customer service perspective I’m very pleased. Electronic channel submission is an efficient process and saves customers time. It has worked very successfully in the activity over the last few months and has received very positive feedback from farmers and agents who have used it so far.“

ENDS

Notes to editors


1. The Rural Payments Agency (RPA) is an executive agency of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra). It is the single paying agency responsible for CAP schemes in England.

2. The two farm software companies, Farmplan and Paul Holliday Software, will market their SPS claim software in the lead up to the 2009 SPS application process.

3. RPA will be giving new farm software providers the opportunity to get involved in the scheme. A detailed information pack will be available shortly.

4. For further information on electronic channel submissions, please see the RPA website www.rpa.gov.uk  click on the ‘Single Payment Scheme’ link and then follow the ‘Electronic Channel’ link

Media Enquiries

Caroline Forcer, RPA Press Office, 0118 968 7680; e-mail: caroline.forcer@rpa.gsi.gov.uk.