National Pig Association THE VOICE OF THE UK PIG INDUSTRY NPA is active on members' behalf in Brussels & Whitehall, and with processors, supermarkets & caterers - fighting for the growth and pros-perity of the UK pig industry.

"Farmers have a once-only opportunity to comment on their historical claim data and those wishing to make representations should do so within 28 days of receipt of the information."

The RPA is not expecting to receive back Information Statements from recipients, and will assume the information is correct if returns are not sent in. By taking this approach it will not know if all the information packs have been received by qualifying farmers (and if lost in post then neither will know).

A number of other forms were sent out with the Information Statement (SP1 form). The most important is the SP2 form, which covers hardships cases, for example foot and mouth, and starts the process of amending the reference years to take specific problems into account. The deadline for SP2 applications is December 1. The other forms cover business changes (SP3) and new entrants (SP4).

You should Contact the Rural Payments Agency's customer service centre at 0845 6018045 as soon as possible if you have not received your Single Payment Scheme Information Statement pack.

When you receive it, make sure you review your Statement pack and submit your amendments within 28 days of receipt.

Source: National Pig Association - 26th October 2004