SPS Issues April 18, 2013 12:00 am The Weather and Coding The RPA has issued updated guidance on how to code fields for SPS 2013 given the very poor weather and crop conditions. This can be found in the ‘Current Single Payment Scheme FAQs’ under ‘SPS 2013 Land Use Codes’. In summary, it suggests that the code OT1 be used where a crop has been planted and has partially or wholly failed. This is also the case if field operations have been carried out but no crop has been drilled. However, there must be an intention to establish a crop either later this spring or, more likely, in the autumn. If the field is going to be fallow for all of 2013 then use the OT2 code. Intentional Over-declaration There will be greater focus on intentional over-declaration under the 2013 SPS. Paragraph N18 on page 76 of the 2013 Guidance Booklet sets out the severe penalties that will be applied. In practical terms, it appears that one of the main circumstances in which an over-declaration may be deemed intentional would be where the RPA has informed a claimant of ineligible areas in their fields. If these are not deducted from future claims the heavy penalties will apply. It would be good practice to ask for all correspondence from the RPA in the last 12 months before completing this year’s application. Soil Protection Review We have mentioned this issue previously, but it is worth repeating again at this point in the year. Given the weather in 2012, it is difficult to believe that any farm won’t have some soils issues to record. Inspectors will certainly be looking at the SPR to check that it contains some plausible information. It would be good practice to check that a farm’s SPR isin order when completing the SP5. Scotland and Wales Forms have been sent out to all Scottish and Welsh farmers. If they have not been received then claimants should contact their local office. Like the RPA, the Scottish Government is promoting the SAF online system, with a view to having mandatory online applications at some point in the future.
