Dairy UK Calls on Government for Support

UK - Dairy UK is calling on Government to back UK dairy farmers in the context of Defra’s ongoing debate about food security.
calendar icon 19 September 2008
clock icon 2 minute read

Speaking on the eve of the Dairy and Livestock Event, Dairy UK Director General Jim Begg said: “The food security debate has to conclude with recognition of the primary importance of domestic agriculture. This means the government must commit itself to ensuring the UK dairy sector can meet its potential. In an unstable and unpredictable global environment this is the only safe bet.

“The supply chain is working hard in a difficult commercial environment to add value to milk, but the fact is farmers still lack the confidence to invest. That is why the government must play a more positive role.

“At a time of falling milk production, it is right that the Government should be asked to reexamine the effect of its policies on UK dairy farming and especially the support it will give dairy farmers in meeting new Nitrate Vulnerable Zone obligations. Dairy UK is also calling for the government to provide stronger support for agricultural research and its role in making food production more efficient.

“The UK dairy industry is a tremendous national asset that needs to be nurtured. Our industry is delivering high quality, healthy foods that consumers want to eat, while lowering its impact on the environment. At Dairy UK we are proud of dairy. And with the right Government support, there could be even more to be proud of in the future.”

Dairy UK is preparing a detailed submission to Defra, which is consulting stakeholders now on food security. It follows publication of the Cabinet Office’s Strategy Unit on food security and the dairy industry in July.

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