Computer training
Computer training
THE government should consider funding a programme to provide farmers with computers and training in how to use them, MPs have been told.
Speaking as he gave evidence to the agriculture select committee on regional service centres, NFU president Ben Gill described it as an option for which there was a lot to be said. "It would be beneficial not just in connection with submitting forms to MAFF but also in communicating information to farmers."
Questioned about the implications of a possible move towards electronic submission of subsidy claims Mr Gill said it had its attractions.
Provided forms were designed carefully it would make data handling by MAFF much easier which would speed up payments.
But Mr Gill stressed that farmers must also have the option to continue to submit claims on paper if they so wished.