Fruit, vegetable and potato (FVP) authorizations are no longer needed when claiming Single Farm Payment. Major EU reforms have changed legislation due to take effect in January 2008. There will be reduced administration and growers given more certainty over their future rental arrangements.

Orchard crops production will become eligible for payment entitlements and support claims. The NFU are keen to work with DEFRA ensuring that the changes will be easily implemented and adopted.

Peter Kendall, NFU President said “The EU reform of the change means that the administrative nightmare for fruit, vegetable and potato growers will be consigned to history.”

The changes will mean that fruit and vegetable co-operatives will have simplified regulations with the aim to encourage new producers into the industry.