MILK PRICES

That this House notes with concern that the average price paid to farmers for a litre of milk in July 2001 was 20.43p, yet in July 2006 it had dropped to just 17.17p; further notes that processors are quick to take advantage of the falling commodity price; supports farmers in their attempts to work together to secure a better deal from large processors and retailers; calls upon the Government to enable farmers to work collectively; and urges Ministers to take action again processors and retailers who unfairly offer poverty rates which can severely disadvantage farmers.