Delay in voluntary code unacceptable says Chair of EFRA Committee

Anne McIntosh MP, Chair of the EFRA Committee, today writes to the Minister of Agriculture outlining the Committee's frustration at the ongoing failure of the Government and dairy industry to agree a voluntary code of conduct for milk contracts.

Letter to Rt Hon James Paice MP

Commenting on the letter, Anne McIntosh MP said:

“It is frustrating that for the last fourteen months the Government have been saying that a voluntary code is the best way forward for the dairy industry but have yet to secure an agreement on its content. In evidence to our Committee last week we heard firsthand how time is running out for many dairy farmers. We urge the Government to secure the voluntary code as a matter of priority. If it cannot then legislation must be considered.”

“We are delighted that talks on the code are going ahead but we will reserve the possible decision to invite the Secretary of State before us in September if no formal decision is reached”