In brief – 16 March, 2010

Blunt instrument

NORTHERN isles MP Alistair Carmichael has come out in support of farmers and crofters hit by unexpectedly high penalty payments for non-compliance with European regulations.

Stockholders who submitted incorrect paperwork last year found themselves losing three per cent of their single farm payments, rather than one per cent as was previously the case.

The moves have been criticised by the National Farmers Union who are considering legal action against the retrospective increase in penalties.

Mr Carmichael said the penalties were also disproportionate to the level of offence. “The present penalty system is a blunt instrument which fails to distinguish between serious breaches and minor errors,” he said.