6 May 2020
Dairy Farmers

The Government has today announced a new fund to support dairy farmers, with access of up to £10,000 each covering 70% of their lost income during April and May. Throughout the coronavirus period, the dairy industry has faced challenges of excess milk, falling prices, and reduced demand from the hospitality sector. A campaign spearheaded by the MP for the Cotswolds, has called on Government to provide additional support to those farmers facing financial difficulties.

The Government has today announced a new fund to support dairy farmers, with access of up to £10,000 each covering 70% of their lost income during April and May. Throughout the coronavirus period, the dairy industry has faced challenges of excess milk, falling prices, and reduced demand from the hospitality sector. A campaign spearheaded by the MP for the Cotswolds, has called on Government to provide additional support to those farmers facing financial difficulties.

The Government has already announced action to temporarily relax some elements of UK competition law to allow suppliers, retailers and logistics providers in the dairy industry to work more closely together on some of the challenges they are facing. The Government has also today backed a  £1million campaign to boost milk consumption and help producers use their surplus stock.

Geoffrey Clifton-Brown MP said:

“I worked very hard with other colleagues to get this much needed support for our dairy farmers. I considered it a matter of urgency after speaking to farmers in my constituency who were in danger of going out of business and having to slaughter their cows.

“I am very grateful to the Secretary of State, George Eustice MP and the Government for providing this lifeline to dairy farmers, ensuring they are able to continue farming and producing the milk needed when normality returns.”

Environment Secretary George Eustice said:

“Our dairy industry plays a crucial role in feeding our nation and we are doing all we can to ensure they are properly supported during this time.

“We will continue to stand alongside our dairy farmers through this difficult period”.