Farming News - Dairy leaders clash over milk production

Dairy leaders clash over milk production


Farmers For Action’s David Handley has spoken out after clashing with Gwyn Jones, head of levy board AHDB Dairy at the South West Dairy Event.  

During a debate at the event, Mr Handley said he was “Shocked” to see that milk production is rising in the UK, when there is no demand for more product.

Gwyn Jones, on the other hand, said that the UK is well placed to compete within Europe and beyond, due to farm size and climate. Mr Jones said that farmers elsewhere in Northern Europe are producing more milk, due to greater investment in their businesses.

Mr Jones went on to say, “The time to prepare for the next downturn is now.”

Speaking after the debate on Wednesday, David Handley said he was “Absolutely furious” at the suggestion that farmers should be encouraged to produce more milk “when there is no market either at home of globally for that product.”

He was highly critical of “consistently recycled ex-NFU officers or staff being put into highly paid positions” in the levy boards, and said “It sickens me that in 2015 this organisation [AHDB Dairy] is the tail wagging the dog.”

At the event, NFU dairy board chair Rob Harrison said the industry is showing the first signs of a reversal of fortunes, though he admitted that supply and demand remain out of balance. Mr Harrison said the NFU had been contacting retailers and coffee chains to ensure they are sourcing British milk and paying farmers fairly.  

However, FFA’s Mr Handley said that the organisation is still having to fight to ensure farmers are better paid before winter. He suggested that “A number of milk processors are still dragging their feet” on price rises or moves to distribute pressure more evenly within the supply chain, adding, “Our message to them is simple if you want to avoid further protests by farmers you need to get a move on. To any retailer out there or food service company who are not coming up to the table even for dialogue, Christmas is coming and we don't want to see in 2015 further protests.”

Meanwhile, the government announced details of the support payments farmers will receive under the relief fund announced last month. More details here.