Farm subsidy loan payments will start arriving in bank accounts on Friday, the Scottish Government has confirmed.
Rural Economy Secretary Fergus Ewing said more than 13,450 eligible farmers and crofters will receive up to 95% of their 2019 Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) payments through the loan scheme.
He said the National Basic Payment Support Scheme would deliver £327.17 million to the rural economy.
“With the UK edging ever closer to leaving the EU without a deal, the early payment of these loans is the single biggest mitigation action I can provide to farmers at this time,” said Mr Ewing.
He said farmers who are yet to receive a loan offer, or return their acceptance letter, can still do so and further payments runs are planned.
“There has never been a more important time for rural businesses to take the necessary steps to ensure they are as prepared as possible for whatever Brexit outcome may be delivered,” added Mr Ewing.
