With the British pig industry facing a crisis from rocketing feed prices, the British Pig Executive (BPEX) has launched a major campaign to improve returns to producers.

Part of this is a proposal for a temporary suspension of the pig levy, which is now out to consultation with the industry.

The proposal is for a three-month suspension which would cost BPEX about £2 million. This shortfall would be met from reserves.

On top of that, BPEX is investing £1m - £500,000 of new money and the same again redeployed - in a campaign to get retailer prices up and to see that rise passed down the chain to the producer.

Only a modest rise would be needed on retail packs to achieve the increase needed to help producers.

A report outlining the effects of a doubling of feed prices has been published by BPEX and a survey has determined consumers are willing to pay a higher price.

The plight of producers was highlighted at all three main political party conferences. A briefing has also been prepared and distributed to food writers explaining what has happened and what needs to be done.

BPEX Chief Executive Mick Sloyan said: "The levy of £1.05 is not a huge amount when compared with the amount pig farmers are losing - £20 per pig sold.

"But it is part of a much bigger overall plan aimed at getting producers a fair return which will in turn help create a sustainable pig industry for the future."

Notes:
The pig levy is divided into two sections, general and promotion. The promotion levy of 65p per pig is paid by the producer. The general levy of 40p is split equally between the processor and the producer.

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