The Government has announced plans for a new task force to address problems facing pig farmers in the UK and improve co-operation between the sector and Whitehall.

The Pig Meat Supply Chain Task Force, announced yesterday by farming minister Jane Kennedy, will look at issues including labelling, hygiene and communication throughout the supply chain.

Representatives from all aspects of the industry will be invited to join the new body, which will come under the aegis of the Department for the Environment, Food & Rural Affairs.

“The passion and commitment of Britain's farmers is evident nowhere more than in the pig industry,” Kennedy said. “And while many parts of the industry are highly organised, professional and forward thinking, it does face some serious problems and challenges.

“Everyone involved in the pig meat supply chain has a duty to ensure that there is a fair deal for all and that ultimately includes the consumer. Therefore, I am convening a task force for the pig meat supply chain, which will meet for the first time next month.”

She added: "The Task Force will be tightly focused on what needs to be done to improve confidence in the long term future of the British pig industry.”

The move comes after the Conservative Party earlier this week backed calls for clearer country-of-origin labelling on meat.

The Grocer 19/2/09