Most imports raised with poorer welfare

Mar 5 2008 by Tom Patterson, The Journal

THE “pigs are worth it” rally was designed to secure support from MPs and peers to save British pig farming.

The industry is said to be on the verge of vanishing as feed prices have doubled in a year.

Yesterday’s event was organised by the National Pig Association, with the support of the British Pig Executive. A cross-party Early Day Motion tabled by British pig industry supporter, MP Richard Bacon, will call for Government support to prevent the disappearance of British pig farming.

Shoppers have said they are happy to pay more for pork raised with high welfare standards to help farmers.

Supermarkets have raised prices on fresh pork, bacon and other pork products, but little, if any, of this increase has flowed down the supply chain to farmers. Bpex chairman Stewart Houston said: “We have reached crisis point.

“Without an increase, farmers stand to lose approximately £200m in the next year and many face the prospect of going out of business.

“Then consumers will lose the choice to buy higher welfare Quality Standard Mark pork, bacon and ham. Two-thirds of all imported produce would be illegal to produce in the UK as it doesn’t meet our higher welfare standards.”

Richard Longthorp, of Howden, East Yorkshire, said: “We don’t want any special treatment. All we are asking for is a fairer share. Prices are going up, but we’re not getting a share of it.”