The Rural Bulletin: 31st May 2018

NFU Scotland urges government help tackle livestock worrying

NFU Scotland is urging the Scottish Government to support a proposed Private Member’s Bill to tackle the blight of livestock worrying.

The Union has written to Cabinet Secretary for Rural Economy and Connectivity, Fergus Ewing, seeking Scottish Government support for the proposed Bill.  In the letter, NFU Scotland mapped out five areas it believes merit inclusion in any new legislative framework or guidance – including making livestock worrying a recordable crime and granting power to the police to issue Dog Control Notices.

NFU Scotland President Andrew McCornick said: “There is no such thing as an irresponsible dog, only irresponsible dog owners and this proposed Bill presents a genuine opportunity for Scottish Government to back change that will make a massive difference to livestock keepers across the country.”  

Muller announces consecutive price rise

Dairy processor, Muller, has announced a 1.25p/litre increase to its stand litre from 1 July.

This increase is the second consecutive upward movement from the firm, meaning the 700 Muller Direct producers will receive 28p/l for milk with a constituent content of 4% butterfat and 3.3% protein.

In a report by Farmers Weekly, Muller milk supply director - Rob Hutchinson - said: “Market returns are continuing to improve after a challenging period, and we are pleased to reflect this in higher milk prices.

“In practical terms our farmers now have the means by which they can continue to benefit from upsides in the farmgate milk market, but they are now far better protected from the downturns thanks to innovations such as the Muller Direct fixed price contract and the futures contract option.”

Deadline approaching for £40,000 young farmer scheme

Young farmers in Wales have less than two weeks remaining to apply for a £40,000 start-up grant.

The Young People into Agriculture scheme is designed to assist high-achieving young farmers (under the age of 40 as of 1st April 2018) to set up as “head-of-holding” for the first time.

Successful applicants will have to demonstrate they have the potential to lead dynamic new businesses or deliver change in an existing business.

Their businesses must either have been set up in the 12 months before 1 April 2018 or be established by 1 September 2018.

Applications close on 12 June. Further information is available here. 

UK food and farming sector unite to set Brexit objectives for government

Leaders of over 100 organisations from across the nation's food supply chain have put their names to a manifesto setting out the key principles that can help ensure Brexit is a success for the supply of food in the UK.

The UK Food Supply Chain Manifesto, has been drawn up by organisations representing farmers producing the raw ingredients and their suppliers, right through to manufacturers and retailers. It sets out the need for positive outcomes on trade, labour, regulation and domestic agricultural policy.

With little more than 10 months to go before Brexit, the manifesto emphasises the importance of ensuring departure from the EU does not undermine the food production and supply sectors in the UK.

The manifesto has been sent to the Prime Minister by NFU President Minette Batters on behalf of the signatories, as well as other key cabinet ministers.