Explanatory note
(This note is not part of the Regulations)
These Regulations amend the Agriculture Improvement Regulations 1985 (“the principal Regulations”), implementing in part the provisions of Council Regulation (EEC) No. 797/85 (O.J. No. L93, 30.3.85, p.1), as amended by Council Regulation (EEC) No. 1137/88 (O.J. No. L108, 29.4.88, p.1), on improving the efficiency of agricultural structures.
With effect from 1st September 1988, the regulations reduce the grant rate for heated glasshouses from 50% to 45% and reduce the additional ceiling for expenditure in respect of heated glasshouses and glasshouse heating systems from £86,000 to £24,000 (regulations 4(b) and 6). With effect from 5th August 1988, the closing date for receipt of claims in respect of those items, at the reduced rates and ceiling, is extended from 30th November 1988 to 30th November 1989 (regulation 5).
An exception is, however, provided under which a claimant may still qualify for the previous higher rates and ceiling in respect of heated glasshouses and glasshouse heating systems if—
he has submitted an application for approval or variation of an improvement plan including proposed expenditure in respect of those items before 1st September 1988; and
a claim for such expenditure is received by the appropriate Minister before 1st December 1988 (regulation 2(2)).
In addition, the regulations modify the restrictions on the approval of grant in connection with pig production enterprises in relation to any application for an improvement plan, or for a variation of such a plan, received on or after 5th August 1988, and to claims for grant towards expenditure incurred on or after that date (regulations 2(1) and 4(a)).