NPA chairman Rob Mutimer has highlighted the ‘once in a generation opportunity’ Defra’s pork supply chain review provides to create a fairer trading environment for the British pig industry, in a letter to new Defra Secretary Ranil Jayawardena.
In the letter, which can be viewed HERE, Mr Mutimer says the NPA looks forward to working with the newly-appointed Minister and hopes to continue the excellent relationship the association had with his predecessor.
Highlighting the various factors that have contributed to the ‘unprecedented crisis’ of the past two years and Defra figures showing a 17% reduction in the sow herd, he adds: “With many more businesses struggling to survive, we expect this trend to continue until farmers are paid a price that better reflects the current cost of production.
“We are enormously grateful for the close working relationship we have with built with Defra Ministers and officials during the crisis and the work that has already been undertaken to assist the sector.
“The ongoing review into contractual practice in the UK pig sector is hugely welcome and gives us an unprecedented opportunity to improve fairness and transparency throughout the supply chain.
“It is a once in a generation opportunity to reset the balance of power and create an environment for the British pig industry to thrive again.”