RPA has sent out the new entitlements application form (SP20) and guidance

RPA has sent out the new entitlements application form (SP20) and guidance to about 1400 farmers and growers who have registered their interest in applying for new Single Payment Scheme (SPS) entitlements. The closing date for return of the form is 13 August 2009.
 
Farmers who were using land in 2008 to grow permanent fruit and vegetables (including commercial orchards), nursery crops and vines may now be eligible to apply for new SPS entitlements. The entitlements can be used to claim payment for the first time in the 2010 scheme year.
 
Any farmer or grower who has registered and hasn’t received a form by 30 June, is urged to contact RPA’s Customer Service Centre (CSC) as soon as possible.
 
Growers who think they may be eligible to apply for new entitlements and who have not yet registered are urged to read Information Note 2 on the RPA website under the Entitlements link on the home page. If they believe they meet the criteria they should call the RPA CSC as soon as possible on 0845 603 7777 to register their interest, or they risk not getting what they are entitled to.


Notes to Editors
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 and is responsible for administering the Single Payment Scheme (SPS). Other key services include carrying out rural inspections and livestock tracing.

Media only contact: Caroline Forcer, RPA Press Office , 0118 968 7680 caroline.forcer@rpa.gsi.gov.uk