"Boom-Bust Cycle Must be avoided" - says Farron

4.43.01pm GMT Tue 7th Oct 2008

Following the news that cereal production across the EU grew by a massive 50million tonnes this year, newly appointed Shadow Secretary of State for DEFRA Tim Farron has warned of the pitfalls of a "boom-bust" cycle.

Commenting Mr Farron said:

"This boom will reduce feed prices, which is good news for livestock farmers; but the danger is that arable farmers will plant less for next year which could lead to a 'bust'.

"We must ensure that there is no reduction in capacity as a response to this year's boom-especially given that there is a growing demand for cereals both for human and livestock consumption.

"This is not the time for Hilary Benn to stand idly by. He must provide farmers with some protection from the market-or risk it going bust."