Beef Efficiency Scheme deadline extended

The deadline for applications to the Beef Efficiency Scheme has been extended until 15 June 2016.

A deadline extension has been announced by the new Rural Economy Secretary, Fergus Ewing, for the Beef Efficiency Scheme (BES), meaning farmers now have until 15 June 2016 to apply for a share of up to £45 million beef sector support scheme.

The previous deadline for applications was Tuesday 31 May.

BES is a new scheme that aims to improve the efficiency, sustainability and quality of the Scottish beef herd, helping to increase profitability and cut greenhouse gas emissions.

A letter has been issued to approximately 8,000 beef producers and their agents in order to make them aware of the extension and to encourage them to apply. A copy of the letter is attached.

Applications for the scheme can only be submitted online at the ScotEID website.

Customer guidance for the five-year programme, open to farmers and crofters, is available on the Rural Payments and Services website.

If you have any questions relating to BES scheme applications please contact the helpline on 0300 300 2222.