The Single Payment Scheme (SPS) is the most recent implementation
of the EU’s Common Agricultural Policy and is slowly becoming
more workable. However, there are still vestiges of problems
dating back to establishment of entitlements when the scheme
began in 2005 as well as problems with subsequent claims which
the Rural Payment Agency (RPA) have not resolved to farm businesses’
satisfaction.
Simon Ward is a national expert on the EU legislation supporting
SPS implementation and has been involved in resolving numerous
disputed claims.
He is also an authority on EU agricultural policy and this
understanding allows him to assess the likely impact of reforms
on the agricultural industry in the UK as well as on individual
farms.
The provisions and implications of the 2008 CAP Health Check
will further alter the implementation of the subsidy scheme,
to the potential disadvantage of larger farm units. To keep
informed on these developments you can subscribe to Inside
Track.
Situations where Simon
Ward has improved SPS income:
Supported disputed claims from the National
Reserve which were ultimately successful
Recovered and/or settled over £1m of incorrect
SPS payments on behalf of clients
Successfully lobbied for compensation of a
group of farm businesses initially disadvantaged by Defra’s
interpretation and implementation of the SPS
Represented clients in SPS appeals
For more information on the CAP, SPS and future reforms, e-mail
