It has been reported that the government are to do more to help protect dairy farmers from fluctuations in the market. This comes as demand has fallen in China and Russia’s ban on dairy imports.

Claire Marshall a BBC environment correspondent said “to keep cattle well fed and looked after costs a farmer about 30p for each litre of milk produced - but most were being paid just 20p a litre.” According to the NFU since 2001 the number of dairy farmers fell below 10,000 (a fall of 50% since 2001).

The Commons Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee said there was no "single solution" but that it was incumbent on the government to "promote UK dairy produce domestically and in growing export markets".

A spokeswoman said the long-term prospects for the industry were good, and there would be a review of the Groceries Code Adjudicator next year.