THE Ministry of Agriculture is reminding farmers that the deadline for the return of IACS forms is May 15.

Farmers in the ministry's north-east region must ensure that they get their forms to the MAFF office at Alverton Court, Crosby Road, Northallerton, by that date.

It has been the practice in recent years for the ministry to accept personally-delivered forms at the office and at reception clinics set up specifically for the purpose. As a result of the foot and mouth disease outbreak, the ministry has reluctantly decided to close its doors to visitors, so the usual arrangements will not be possible this year and all applicants will have to post their forms.

They are advised to obtain evidence of posting, such as Recorded Delivery, to ensure that their applications don't go astray.

Applications should be submitted as far in advance of the deadline as possible to allow sufficient time for the basic checks which are normally carried out when applications are delivered by hand.

The ministry recognised that removing the personal delivery option might deprive farmers of a chance to raise queries on their forms. In order to overcome this, a dedicated group of staff has been set up to deal with queries about IACS returns. The helpline number is (01609) 773751. Enquirers should ask to be connected to the IACS Helpline.

A further option available to farmers for the first time this year is to submit their forms electronically over the internet. MAFF's electronic IACS form is available on line at www.jacs2.maff.gov.uk and information on submitting electronic IACS applications is available on the MAFF website at www.maff.gov.uk/ebus/eforms/eforms/htm.

Copies of an electornic IACS booklet and further information on submitting IACS forms electronically, can be obtained by contacting the e-IACS Helpdesk on (0845) 601 3482 or by e-mail at eiacs@cambridge.maff.gsi.gov.uk

Updated: 10:39 Thursday, May 03, 2001