HC Deb 20 November 2003 vol 413 c1191W
14. Matthew Green

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will make a statement on the dairy industry. [139843]

Alun Michael

The Government recognise the difficulties caused by low farmgate prices and the challenges of adjusting to the new conditions faced by the reformed CAP, but we also believe that the UK dairy sector has a sustainable future. The UK has a comparative advantage in terms of climate and farm efficiency and size over many of its competitors and if the industry can work together to maximise its potential then there is no reason why it cannot succeed.

17. Mr. Flook

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what action she will take to increase the farmgate price of milk for British dairy farmers.[139846]

Alun Michael

The reasons for the low farmgate prices over the last few years are complex and cannot be reduced to a single factor. Many of these reasons require action by the industry itself. However, the Government can and have taken action in line with their strategy for sustainable farming and food to facilitate and promote the industry's efforts to become more competitive.

18. Mr. Paul Marsden

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what recent discussions she has had with representatives of the dairy industry. [139847]

Alun Michael

Ministers frequently meet representatives from all parts of the dairy supply chain and are therefore aware of the issues affecting the sector. Matters affecting the whole supply chain are regularly discussed at the Dairy Supply Chain Forum chaired by my noble Friend, the Lord Whitty.

21. Mrs. Brooke

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will make a statement on the dairy industry. [139850]

Alun Michael

The Government recognise the difficulties caused by low farmgate prices and the challenges of adjusting to the new conditions faced by the reformed CAP, but we also believe that the UK dairy sector has a sustainable future. The UK has a comparative advantage in terms of climate and farm efficiency and size over many of its competitors and if the industry can work together to maximise its potential then there is no reason why it cannot succeed.