The NFU has responded to today’s media coverage over the decision by Tesco to stock beef from the USA.

NFU livestock board chairman Alistair Mackintosh said: "Supermarkets should show their support for the British beef industry by ensuring they do all they can to source British beef for their shelves.

"The beef industry has gone through a difficult number of years. We have seen the beef price recently break through the £3/kilo mark which is encouraging but this still falls somewhat short of covering the costs of production.

"The recent success of The Great British Beef Week shows that consumers want to buy British. Our beef is produced to some of the highest standards of quality and safety in the world. Consumers recognise this quality. British producers are ideally placed to meet domestic demand and reduce any reliance on foreign meat imports.

"It is therefore disappointing that some retailers feel the need to undermine producer confidence by sourcing foreign beef. A greater commitment from retailers to stock as much British beef as possible would send out the correct message to farmers to invest in production and ensure the future viability of the industry."