Sustainable Beef Prices 'Essential' In Wake Of FMD Crisis.
UK - NFU President Peter Kendall met senior executives of the supermarket giant Tesco yesterday to discuss the impact of the foot and mouth outbreak on its livestock farmer suppliers.
22 August 2007
2 minute read
"However, we shouldn't forget that, before the crisis, prices for beef cattle and lambs were not sustainable and that further steps will be required before farmers can be expected to commit to another round of long term decisions.
Peter Kendall, NFU President
Speaking after the meeting, Mr Kendall said: "Tesco has so far taken a responsible approach in not taking advantage of the foot and mouth situation to increase the pressure on its farmer suppliers. I was encouraged by what they said about switching their sourcing policy within the UK to give further support to British sheep farmers.
"Tesco has made time to understand the impact of the outbreak on their suppliers and have worked with them to find solutions. I see this as a step forward to working towards a shared goal of sustainable prices for beef and lamb.
"However, we shouldn't forget that, before the crisis, prices for beef cattle and lambs were not sustainable and that further steps will be required before farmers can be expected to commit to another round of long term decisions.
"I was encouraged by the fact that Tesco do seem to understand that and have signalled their intention of working with us and their producers to achieve a solution that will enable livestock farmers in England and Wales to continue to supply consumers with the best beef and lamb in the world.”
TheCattleSite News Desk
