LEDBURY'S MP, Bill Wiggin is concerned that the Basic Payment Scheme, the biggest of the European Union’s rural grants and payments to help the farming industry, is not up to scratch.

Farmers apply once a year, normally in May, and payments should begin in December.

But Prime Minister, David Cameron, recently sought advice from Mr Wiggin about the Basic Payment Scheme during a meeting at No 10 Downing Street.

Mr Wiggin said afterwards: “The Basic Payment Scheme is not up to scratch and there are still almost 26,000 farmers who have yet to be paid.

"I have been very concerned about the Basic Payment Scheme for some time and I have already raised the matter in Parliament with the Secretary of State."

He added: "I was delighted the Prime Minister asked my advice on the best course of action during our meeting: I recommended he issues partial payments to all those who have not yet been paid.

"This is a serious concern for farmers across the country, many of whom are my constituents, who are still waiting for this money."