Dairy makes a difference

Dairy UK’s new initiative aimed at highlighting the benefits of dairy products and the dairy industry was launched Tuesday at the House of Commons with support from politicians. ‘Dairy Makes a Difference’ will showcase the many ways in which dairy contributes to the economy, the environment, public health and nutrition. Members of Parliament, along with industry groups and members of the public, are being asked to sign up via an interactive web page, www.dairymakesadifference.org.

Judith Bryans, chief executive for Dairy UK notes, “We need to work collaboratively across the supply chain and with the government. Ensuring that we have a vibrant dairy sector that will serve the needs of consumers is of paramount importance.”

George Eustice, undersecretary of state for farming, food and marine environment, says that the dairy industry has a really positive future, in comparison with two years ago, when farmers were marching over price cuts in London. He further notes that dairy demand continues to grow globally, and that dairy farmers are in a very strong position going forward. “The UK is one of the more efficient producers of milk in the wrold and we are getting better at adding value to raw milk.”

He also praised the voluntary agreement brokered by dairy UK between processors and farmers as offering more transparency between the farmer and processor, noting that 85% of the UK industry has signed up. “It offers a clear framework on how they participate,” he states.

As for the prospect of post-quota exports from nearby countries, Neil Parish, MP for Tioverton and Homerton, says, “We have nothing to fear from the Irish market if we have good prices for milk. I am very upbeat.” Bill Wiggin, MP for North Herefordshire, adds, “If we get dairy right, the rest of the food industry follows. I never want to see milk being sold for less than the price of bottled water again. Dairy is a crucial part of the countryside.”