EMERGENCY measures to support Welsh farmers during the coronavirus outbreak - recognising the crucial role they play in feeding the nation - have been announced by the Welsh Government.

  • Farmers will have an extra month to submit their Single Application Form (SAF), with the deadline now extended to June 15;
  • In response to concerns about crop diversification requirements following recent flooding, and the added pressure and uncertainties brought by coronavirus, requirements for BPS 2020 have been completely removed;
  • An extra £5.5 million has been allocated to the BPS and Glastir 2019 support scheme which has re-opened today to support those farmers yet to receive their 2019 BPS and/or Glastir payments. Farmers will be able to apply for support through the scheme to alleviate potential cash flow problems.

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Minister for environment, energy and rural affairs Lesley Griffiths, has also written to farming unions to thank them and their members for their work ensuring the continuation of the food supply chain.

Earlier this week, a new FarmWell Wales resource was launched, including useful information and advice to help keep farm businesses and farmers resilient and plan positively for the future.

“We are facing a global pandemic the like of which we have not seen in peacetime. This is a worrying time for all families across Wales, especially in our rural and farming communities," said Ms Griffiths.

“I would like to sincerely thank farmers and everyone else in the supply chain for the heroic job you are doing ensuring food gets on Welsh plates. The situation we face is unprecedented but we will do all we can to continue supporting our valued rural communities across Wales."