The government is “on track” to issue the first batch of letters to farmers this week offering an interest-free BPS loan, Cabinet Secretary Fergus Ewing confirmed to a Scottish Parliament committee meeting on Wednesday.

“I would urge all those receiving a letter to respond by the deadline to take up the offer of a loan and receive payment in November,” he said.

The loans, worth 90% of the farmer’s estimated 2017 entitlement, are in place of direct payments from the Common Agricultural Policy, which will be delayed by the Scottish Government’s IT system.

Approximately 74% of farmers opted for the loan scheme for 2016 BPS payments.

Camera and Question

John Johnstone, Sorn Ayrshire

“We took the loan last year and we will do it again. It doesn’t cost you anything to get it. It’s crazy the computer thing has gone on so long. Why has it not been sorted? It’s vital for farmers to get their money, as you can’t farm without it.”

Alan Richmond, High Grange, Maybole

“We will take it up to get our money. We took it up last year. The money is important in this economic climate.”