NSA welcomes delay of the Welsh Sustainable Farming Scheme

The National Sheep Association (NSA) Cymru / Wales Region welcomes the sensible announcement made by the Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs of a new timeline to introduce the Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS), along with the formation of the ministerial roundtable to lead this process.

In a written statement made yesterday (Tuesday 14th May) the Cabinet Secretary, Huw Irranca-Davies MS, confirmed that the proposed SFS transition will now start in 2026. Confirmation was also given that the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) will be available for claimants in 2025.

The news has been well received by industry stakeholders. NSA Cymru Development Officer Helen Roberts comments: “This very welcome announcement will now give us chance to work with Welsh Government in partnership to deliver a scheme for a successful future for Welsh farming. The scheme needs to work for all sectors and there is still much discussion to be done around, tenancy, commons, new entrants, cross border etc but it is a huge step in the right direction and one where we can deliver for food, climate and our culture.”

NSA Chief Executive Phil Stocker adds: “It is a welcome relief that the new Cabinet Secretary seems to be listening to the concerns of Welsh farmers over proposed future farm support. NSA is hopeful the delay of the launch of the SFS will allow time to be taken carefully to make the changes necessary to ensure the scheme continues to support farmers to continue actual farming, producing food sustainably alongside improving the environment.”

Notes for editors 
•    For more information and high resolution images, contact Katie James, NSA Communications Manager, on 01684 892661 or katie@nationalsheep.org.uk
•    The National Sheep Association is an organisation that represents the views and interests of sheep producers throughout the UK. It is funded by its membership of sheep farmers and its activities involve it in every aspect of the sheep industry. More at www.nationalsheep.org.uk and www.nsanextgeneration.org.uk.