A SKIPTON-BASED inspector for the Rural Payments Agency (RPA) is advising local 2015 Basic Payment Scheme claimants to do their homework before submitting a claim as new cross compliance rules came into effect on New Year's Day.

Last year, more than 220 Yorkshire-based claimants experienced cross compliance breaches, costing them more than £175,000 in missed EU subsidies.

Now inspector Andrea Wilkinson is advising all farmers and food producers who want to claim on the Basic Payment Scheme or who have a Rural Development Programme land-based agreement to thoroughly read the latest guidance for 2015.

She said: “Our recent Common Agricultural Policy update leaflets have been highlighting that some of the cross compliance rules have changed for 2015.

“The Agency is committed to supporting rural economies and would not wish farmers and food producer to miss out on vital EU funding. This is why we urge all those proposing to claim the new Basic Payment Scheme or Rural Development Programme land-based schemes next year to familiarise themselves with the rules. Paying attention now could save you money next year."

RPA customers can find comprehensive and up-to-date information on all the changes at GOV.UK