THE dairy industry has presented plans for its new industry strategy to Government.
The NFU, Dairy UK and DairyCo have presented a draft of the strategy to the Defra dairy supply chain forum (DSCF) chaired by farming minister George Eustice and DSCF members will be given an opportunity to shape the strategy.
The proposals are aimed at joining up plans to strengthen the sector and the program is set to be rolled out in Spring 2014.
NFU chief dairy adviser Rob Newbery highlighted the growing global demand for dairy product.
“The NFU believes that the British dairy industry should seize this opportunity for growth. We know farmers are well placed to respond to this challenge, provided the right signals come from the market place,” he said.
These comments were underlined by Dairy UK and DairyCo.
Dairy UK chief executive Judith Bryans said: “It is vital that the UK dairy industry pulls together with a clear understanding and aspiration for the future. Growth based on the three pillars of sustainability; economic, social and environmental, will benefit farmers, processors and consumers alike.
AHDB DairyCo Sector Director Duncan Pullar said: “We believe that our target to achieve a zero UK dairy trade balance value in the next ten years, from the current £1.2bn deficit, is challenging but realistic.”
Source: Farmers Guardian
