Lesley Griffiths MS, Minister for Rural Affairs and North Wales, and Trefnydd
Today I am pleased to announce a total direct payment ceiling of £238 million to provide the same level of direct payments to farmers in 2022, as provided in 2020 and 2021.
The budget provides the same level of total payment through the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) and associated schemes. It continues to take into account the new simplified BPS calculation without the separate Greening payment.
On 27 October, the Chancellor announced Wales would receive £252.19 million for agricultural support in FY 2022/23 to replace EU Common Agricultural Policy funding. This means Welsh farmers have lost a further £106 million, on top of the £137 million of funding level not provided last year. This creates real challenges in addressing the issues our rural communities face as we exit the EU and continue to deal with the pandemic. I have prioritised support for farmers given these challenges.
This statement is being issued during recess in order to keep members informed. Should members wish me to make a further statement or to answer questions on this when the Senedd returns I would be happy to do so.