There was no application period for ten month special beef premium in January-February 1993. There was, however, an application period for 22 month special beef premium at that time and the person named applied for this premium on 35 animals on 5 January 1993. He was paid the first instalment of £1,063.03 on foot of this application on 15 December 1993 and the final instalment of £782.52 on 25 April 1994. These amounts represent the full premium due on all 35 animals listed on his application. There was no question of any of the animals listed on his January 1993 application having been too old for payment of this premium.
I understand that six of the 13 animals in respect of which the person named applied for ten month special beef premium in February 1994 are over age. These cattle can, however, be considered for payment of the 22 month premium. With up to three application periods during which farmers can apply for special beef premium in 1994, I do not accept that the age requirements make it difficult for farmers to obtain the premium.
