UK/SCANDINAVIA – The protracted talks to decide whether Arla’s takeover of UK-based Express Dairies would diminish fair competition have finally concluded, with the deal getting the green light from the UK’s competition authorities.

Competition minister Gerry Sutcliffe announced yesterday that while the merger will lead to greater concentration in the supply of fresh milk, the Competition Commission did not feel this would operate against the public interest.

National Farmers Union committee chairman Terrig Morgan said: “We are pleased that the Competition Commission has recognised the significant buyer power of the national multiples that currently exists.”