Ministers push for end to milk row

Published on 23/07/2012 01:15

British farming ministers last night agreed to push for farmers and processors to back a new code of practice when they meet today, after days of heightened protests over milk price cuts.

Crunch talks between the two sides are set to go ahead at the Royal Welsh Show in Powys, as the stalemate over the 2p a litre reduction continues.

Scottish minister Richard Lochhead and his Westminster and Welsh counterparts Jim Paice and Alun Davies are united in pressing for both sides to back a new code on milk contracts, according the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. That would be subject to a review after 12 months.

Mr Paice will also hold a meeting with the big supermarkets later in the week to get them to sign up to a voluntary code.

It is understood the ministers believe all sides must “get round the table” to avert further blockades and demonstrations.

Mr Lochhead said: “At the meeting there was recognition that there is an imbalance in the supply chain.

“It was clear the preference of all three ministers is for a robust code of practice which will deliver transparency in pricing and a fair price for our producers.

“But there was also acceptance that legislation remained an option if necessary.”