This last year could be termed the British dairy industry’s “annus horribilis”. Strikes and bad feelings rampaged throughout the country, the fires of which are just now being tamped down. Luckily, the voluntary code of practice was agreed upon by the end of the summer and both processors and farmers are working towards mutual agreements and hopefully a brighter future for the industry overall. It has been a challnege, but one that both sides should be pleased with.

Meanwhile, in Europe, the recessionary fires continue to burn. Greece’s wobble appears to be a constant, joined by other economies such as Spain. Greek debt continues to rise and is now forecast to increase to an astonishing 188.4 per cent of gross domestic product next year. It is hard to see how this particular country will survive such a downturn unscathed.

Howwever, we live in hope. The UK has some signs of life in its economy yet, and growth from bilateral agreements may offer a reasonable avenue for income for the European Union as a whole, and the UK in particular. Stay tuned.