The Future of the Dairy Industry in the UK: A Reply to the Sector Report Published by Food from Britain

Abstract

The UK dairy industry is seriously under threat from imports and already contributes significantly to the country′s food trade deficit. “Food from Britain” blames this shortfall on the restrictions made on supply by milk quota. Suggests that the pricing structure for milk and the monopoly of the Milk Marketing Board are also significant contributory factors. “Food from Britain” champions, among others, increased exports of British cheeses and premium butter products for the home market, to help to redress the balance. Promar International researchers feel that processors would be better advised to concentrate on other types of added‐value dairy products for home and abroad. Discusses the proposals for change at the MMB, countered by a suggestion that only a system of regional competitive co‐operatives would ensure a genuinely free market for the purchase and sale of milk. Without dramatic changes in the structure of supply, allocation systems and pricing of milk it is likely that UK companies will continue to be overrun by imports, while finding it increasingly difficult to penetrate the European market.

Citation

Jones, J. (1992), "The Future of the Dairy Industry in the UK: A Reply to the Sector Report Published by Food from Britain", British Food Journal, Vol. 94 No. 5, pp. 5-9. https://doi.org/10.1108/00070709210012713