Scottish farmers have until the end of this month to decide whether they wish to receive their farm support payments in sterling or euros.

Producers have already chosen whether they wanted to receive their payments in euros by ticking the euro payment box on their Single Farm Payment (SFP) application form in May. Those who ticked that box have up until June 30 to change their mind. After the end of the month the method of payment cannot be altered and payment for the 2008 schemes will be tied to euros.

Equally, if a producer decided they wanted to be paid in sterling but now wanted to change to being paid in euros, they have until June 30 to make the necessary changes to their application. Producers should write to their local Scottish Government Rural Payments and Inspections Directorate (SGRPID) office to notify them of any change.

NFU Scotland policy director Scott Walker said: "Opting to receive payments in euros or sterling is an important decision for any farming business and it's worth discussing the pros and cons with your bank's agricultural advisors on what is best for your farm.

"Many more people have chosen to receive their payments in euros than was the case last year. These producers are effectively betting that they will be able to exchange the euros into sterling at a better exchange rate than will be applicable on the date upon which the European Central Bank sets the official exchange rate. This is September 30.

Livestock research vital in climate change fight Substantial investment in animal science is needed to develop livestock systems that minimise greenhouse gas emissions, and are adapted to global climate change, while contributing more efficiently to global food needs.

That was the key recommendation from a major international conference held in Tunisia last week.

"It is vital that we base future advice on living with climate change on real data about livestock systems globally, including measuring emissions, rather than relying solely on predictions", said Professor Geoff Simm of the British Society of Animal Science (BSAS).

"It is also vital that we consider these issues in the wider global context of cost and access to food, other environmental impacts, food versus fuel and international development. This means much more joint working between livestock, plant and soil scientists, economists and sociologists to tackle these major global issues", he added.

Livestock are hugely important globally, occupying 70% of agricultural land and 30% of the ice-free land surface of the planet. Livestock production is responsible for 40% of global agricultural GDP, is central to the livelihoods of some of the world's poorest people and is both a contributor to global environmental problems and part of the solution.