Bates calls for support as farmgate milk prices plunge (Montgomeryshire Liberal Democrats)

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Montgomeryshire Liberal Democrats <montlibdems@gmail.com>

Bates calls for support as farmgate milk prices plunge

January 7, 2009 12:00 AM

Liberal Democrat Shadow Minister for Rural Affairs, Mick Bates AM, has written to the Minister Elin Jones to urge support for the Welsh dairy industry. This follows the latest round of farmgate milk price cuts, which has seen Arla Foods cut its milk price to farmers by 2p per litre (ppl) and First Milk by 1.25ppl.

Commenting, Mick stated:

"The announcement that farmgate milk prices are to be cut is a blow for dairy farmers across Wales. Too much money is being lost between the farm and the price consumers pay at the supermarket and it is unacceptable that once again farmgate prices have dropped.

"At this difficult economic time farmers are struggling to cover their production costs. Recent low returns in the dairy sector have been leading to 3 dairy farmers a week leaving the industry in Wales.

"The loss of the Welsh dairy industry would be a huge blow to farmers, the countryside and rural communities and I have written to the Minister Elin Jones to urge her support for the industry at this difficult time.

"It is crucial that large processors such as Arla and First Milk are supporting our farmers and it is vital that all tiers of the dairy chain re-evaluate their priorities. Processors and supermarkets alike must pay a fair price to farmers, so that we can secure a sustainable Welsh dairy industry for the future.

"Last year was extremely challenging for farmers with the triple onslaught of Foot and Mouth, TB and Bluetongue. It is vital that we ensure a period of stability for the agricultural industry to get back on its feet as we welcome in the New Year."

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