Rory welcomes RPA’s improved benefits payment system to farmers

Rory Stewart has applauded the work of the government in improving the efficiency and rate of payments to farmers through the Rural Payments Agency (RPA).

“The RPA delivers over 2 billion pounds in direct Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) payments to farmers annually,” Rory Stewart said today.  “Over the last few years delivery of these payments was flawed and inefficient – sadly evidenced by the many farmers who approach me for assistance – but I am very pleased to announce that overhauls to the system instigated by the government and Minister for Agriculture Jim Paice have resulted in the 2011 payments being delivered in record-breaking time, exceeding all targets and well ahead of schedule.  This direct assistance is vital for our farmers so this is not only a great achievement in itself but one which makes a real difference in many people’s lives.”

Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Jim Paice, who oversees the RPA, added, “I know that there is more work to be done to deliver the level of service that RPA’s customers and the taxpayers deservce.  However, thanks to the hard work of RPA’s people, and the support of our public sector and industry partners, I believe the Agency has now turned a corner on the way to becoming a trusted, efficient and effective organisation.”