First step to secure a better deal for milk farmers

Supermarkets paying more for their milk is the "first step" towards securing a better deal for farmers, according to a union chief.

Rob Harrison, chairman of the NFU board, said the latest announcements by Aldi and Asda – following in the footsteps of Morrisons – showed a commitment to British farmers.

Farming groups have also said it is "absolutely vital" that any extra money raised goes back to farmers.

Shropshire's Own, based in Longden Post Office, near Shrewsbury, has been buying its milk from dairy farms and has seen a surge in people looking to support local farmers.

More than 300 one-pint, two-pint and four-pint bottles from Mawley Milk, near Cleobury Mortimer, are being sold a week as residents look for new ways of supporting the industry, which remains in crisis.

Dairy farmers are fighting for a fairer deal over their milk prices, with many making losses as supermarkets sell the product at a low rate.

Most supermarkets now sell four pints of milk for £1, whereas Duncan and Sarah Ellson, who run the shop and post office, sell theirs for £1.50.

Mr Ellson said: "As soon as we took over the shop in January last year we started buying locally produced milk. We started our business online and buying locally has always been what we're all about.

"More and more people are interested in supporting farmers but a lot don't know about any alternatives. We also deliver to shops in Shrewsbury and we pay the farmers what they consider to be a fair price."

Mr Ellson said Mawley Milk still had to sell the majority of its milk to larger chains at a loss but it was hoped more customers would start buying milk at a fairer price.

Struggling dairy farmers across Britain are seeking ways to sell milk directly to customers.

Morrisons will pay 26 pence per litre for liquid milk and will also offer shoppers a milk and a cheese product to support farmers which will cost shoppers extra – but 10ppl will be given back to Arla, which is then expected to go back to farmers.

On Thursday, Asda announced it will pay 28ppl for all its liquid milk while Aldi announced the same news yesterday. The new prices will take effect from Monday.

Mr Harrison said: "We welcome this first step from Aldi on milk which is in line with its recent commitments to back British farmers on fruit and vegetables. This rise must be reflected in price paid to the farmers on the ground.

"We will continue conversations with Aldi to develop its position on cheese and other dairy products."

Morrisons announced plans yesterday to introduce a new cheese which will also see farmers receive 10ppl following a second round of talks with representatives of the NFU, the Tenant Farmers Association (TFA) and Farmers for Action (FFA).

In a joint statement the three groups said: "We are pleased that Morrisons has recognised the need to support the dairy sector at this difficult time. Morrisons must continue conversations with its processors on a regular basis.

"It is absolutely vital that the extra money goes back to British farmers.

"Further work is needed within the cheese sector and we will continue discussions with Morrisons on this issue."

Speaking after Asda unveiled its plans on Thursday, NFU president Meurig Raymond said: "We are pleased that Asda has moved to support farmers in their hour of need. It is now important that Arla ensures this is delivered to British farmers on the ground, with immediate effect."