The Scottish government has launched a £337 million loan scheme for crofters and farmers, which could see each given up to £133,638.

Eligible crofters and farmers will be sent letters this week confirming this, with first payments being made in September.

Rural Affairs Secretary Mairi Gougeon said the government’s “absolute priority” is ensuring farmers and crofters receive their payments and this scheme will ensure that farmers can access this support “at the earliest ever point”.

Gougeon said: “There are a number of challenges arising from Brexit including around food supplies. We are continuing to support our farmers and crofters so that we can maintain domestic food security and help secure local supply chains.”

READ MORE: £190,000 announced for Scotland’s Go Local scheme

“Farmers and crofters have worked incredibly hard to keep us all supplied throughout the challenges brought by Brexit and the Covid pandemic and it is essential that they have the cash flow they need to continue operating.

“For the first time they will be able to accept their loan online, this will enable us to process the loan payments even faster than before.

“I would encourage anyone who would like to accept their loan offer to do so as soon as possible to allow us to process these important payments as quickly as possible.”

The move follows The National Farmers Union (NFU) urging the Prime Minister to develop a comprehensive strategy to protect the agriculture industry.

The union said it is concerned that opening the UK to trade deals with foreign territories will impact the country’s farmers, resulting in them being unable to compete with foreign imports with large-scale tariff liberalisation.

with PA Wires

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