The Basic Payment Scheme (‘BPS’)

The BPS was introduced in 2005 to help fund rural development. If farmers hold the requisite number of entitlements, and comply with the scheme’s requirements, they are entitled to receive an annual payment.
Cross compliance requirements requiring the farmer to maintain land in ‘Good Agricultural and Environmental Condition’ are strictly applied by the Rural Payments Agency (‘RPA’). The BPS rules changed in 2009 and are set to change again under the CAP Reform and it is important to ensure that the current rules are observed.
For further information, please contact Alison Hall or call 0191 232 8245.