Oral question asked in the House of Lords, by Bishop of Wakefield (Bishops (affiliation)). It was answered on Wednesday, 24 February 2010.

Agriculture: Dairy

Question: My Lords, one could ask questions on this subject till the cows come home. I thank the Minister for his kind reply. At present, however, the costs of production are more than the price that many milk producers are getting for it. What additional measures are being put in place, alongside the emergency measures of the dairy fund, for the future continuance of the dairy industry?

Answer: My Lords, the emergency measures are important, but I think that the right reverend Prelate will appreciate, as will the whole House, that we are concerned that the dairy industry should establish itself for a profitable future. That means larger herds and a concentration of dairy production. We welcome the fact that Europe is thinking along the same lines. As we are better placed than many other European countries’ dairy industries, we look forward to improved fortunes for the dairy industry in the future.

Secondary information