NFUS brands government plans disappointing and confusing

After waiting two years for moves to strengthen the remit of the Grocery Code Adjudicator, NFU Scotland yesterday claimed the announcements made this week by the UK Government were disappointing and in some cases only confused the issues. The announcements included a proposal to introduce compulsory milk contracts between producers and purchasers to help protect dairy farmers by setting out clear trading terms.

Also included was a requirement that slaugh- terhouses use a standard grid for the classification of sheep carcasses to help ensure farmers are paid per carcass in a more transparent manner.

Union president Andrew Mccornick said: “NFUS is confused and concerned by the stipulations within the response that these measures will be taken forward in England only.

“NFUS is investigating whether there is any intention to consult Scottish producers and Scottish Government on the implementation of these measures.

“The GCA itself, and the majority of measures outlined in the package, are issues that are reserved to the UK Government and will impact producers operating in the UK.”

He called the proposal to introduce compulsory contracts in the dairy sector as “well-intentioned” but added it would require much development to give it necessary clout. “All milk producers already have contracts with their suppliers, but the nuance is what is within those contracts.

“In addition, while the measures to be introduced on sheep carcass grading will be in England only, they are similar to proposals which the Scottish Government recently consulted on.”