THE future of the dairy industry is the topic of a Milk Development Council-organised dairy industry debate due to be held in Herefordshire next week.

Farmers and representatives from the major milk processing companies and co-ops will be just some of the people teaming up with MDC economics experts for the lively discussion to be held at the Three Counties Hotel, near Hereford, on Wednesday, November 30.

Speakers at the event will include First Milk farmer director Roger Evans, independent consultant Mike Bessey and Mark Heywood, farmer director of Dairy Farmers of Britain.

The aim of the debate is to give farmers more insight into present and future prospects for dairying, and to stimulate debate into how the industry can take its future into its own hands, says MDC senior economist Richard George.

"Many farmers would like to understand exactly what drives their milk price and where the markets for milk are going so they can act to improve their situation, but they simply do not have the time to research it," he said.

"By holding these events, MDC intends to help farmers take the initiative by improving their understanding of the marketplace and giving them a chance to ask questions of the 'good and the great'."

The debate will be chaired by a member of MDC's own farmer-led council - to ensure that the producer's voice is heard.

"In today's dairy industry it is vital that farmers have the knowledge to make the best of the economic conditions - and these debates will hopefully help arm them with the expertise to do this."

To reserve a seat and put your question to the panel, contact Savka Karavla on 01285 646 548.