Many within the Welsh dairy sector have continued to operate under difficult and stressful financial circumstances since the overnight closure of most foodservice businesses under the UK government’s covid-19 lockdown.

The FUW has received a number of reports of farmers having to dump thousands of litres of milk as some processors refused to collect due to the loss in markets, whilst at the same time, spot milk markets became saturated and prices fell to as low as 7 pence per litre (ppl). It is reported that sales by liquid milk processors serving foodservice or wholesale markets have dropped by 50 to 60 percent, resulting in a supply and demand imbalance. This in turn has led to reductions in milk prices paid to farmers along with delayed payments and volume reductions from the dairy companies. Many are now receiving far less than the cost of production.

As with the dairy industry, the lamb and beef sectors are faced with unprecedented times following the overnight closure of the foodservice sector both in the UK and on the continent.

Most recent average prices for liveweight prime cattle in Wales and England stood at 186.4 pence per kilogram whilst both deadweight steer and cull cow prices were down by around 20 pence per kilogram year on year.

AHDB reports state that for the week ending 19 April, the retail demand for beef mince had increased by around 40% in volume, contributing £5m in additional sales compared with 2019. Whilst the demand for steaks increased by 28%, roasting joints were still down by 49% in volume, an average of 30% over the two week Easter period year on year. Given that higher value cuts such as roasting joints and steaks represent around 10% of carcase weight, but 30% of carcase value, the increased proportion of carcases being minced represents a significant fall in carcase value, estimated to be around £200; something which is exacerbated by the loss of markets for skins, many of which went to Italy.

The FUW has written to Future Generations Commissioner Sophie Howe outlining the urgent need to safeguard domestic food security and primary producers by ensuring that the procurement process is aligned with the Well Being of Future Generations Act.

The letter highlighted the importance of ensuring that the food procurement process does not rank price above all other factors, and that it functions in a way which protects domestic food security, the food supply chain and ensures the long term viability of our food producers and their businesses.

Recent reports of dog attacks on livestock during the covid-19 pandemic have prompted the Farmers’ Union of Wales to urge dog walkers to keep dogs on a lead when exercising in the countryside.

The FUW is reminding those taking respite in the countryside to also remember our farmers who are key workers producing our food at this very difficult time.

Many family farms in Wales have been hit hard by the closure of restaurants, cafes and other service outlets during the current pandemic. Avoidable losses, such as those that happen when a dog chases or attacks livestock, are unnecessary, bad for both dog and livestock welfare and add to the current financial stress being experienced by farming businesses at this time.