Your Harrogate Radio

10:00pm - 6:30am

Email the studio

Paolo Nutini

New Shoes

Listen Live

Harrogate MP demands 'regulator with teeth' to protect dairy farmers

Tuesday, 7 October 2025 07:48

Harrogate MP Tom Gordon on his recent tour of farms across Yorkshire.

Harrogate and Knaresborough MP Tom Gordon is demanding the government to take urgent action to protect British dairy farmers.

It comes as news emerges that some suppliers have slashed the prices farmers receive for milk by up to 18%.

Tom is calling for wholesale reform of the regulatory process that governs the dairy farm supply chain.

Both the Groceries Code Adjudicator (GCA) and the Agricultural Supply Chain Adjudicator (ASCA) currently regulate the industry, which he believes has created a “fragmented and weakened regulatory approach.”

Liberal Democrats are calling for a new empowered, unified regulator with the resources and scope to “properly enforce standards and ensure prices are fair.”

Tom Gordon said:

“At a time when farmers in Harrogate and Knaresborough are already having to deal with the fallout of summer drought, cuts to basic payments and the looming threat of the government’s family farm tax, these price cuts will come as yet another kick in the teeth.

“Enough is enough. There can be absolutely no justification for cutting prices for dairy farmers by such a scale. British farmers put food on our table, they are the backbone of the rural economy and are fundamental to our national security.

“The Liberal Democrats are calling for a new unified and empowered regulator with the teeth to stand up to the big corporations and ensure British dairy farmers across Harrogate and Knaresborough finally get a fair deal."

One supplier, Parkham Farms, has announced a 8p per litre drop for November milk to 35.5ppl - a cut of 18%.

Freshways meanwhile, has announced a cut of 6ppl and dairy co-op Arla Foods confirmed that its October milk price will drop by 1.7ppl to 45.34ppl.

House of Commons Library research commissioned by the Liberal Democrats earlier this year has revealed that, since 2015, the total number of dairy farm holdings in England has decreased from 12,643 to 8,738 in 2024 - down by just over 30%.

In that time, dairy livestock numbers have decreased from 1,131,494 to 1,045,819.

More from Local News

Finalists revealed for Knaresborough business awards

Finalists have been announced for the Knaresborough Business Awards 2026 ahead of a ceremony later this year.
Harrogate woman to walk 200km in memory of dad lost to brain tumour

A Harrogate woman is walking 200 kilometres this month to raise money for brain tumour research in memory of her father.
Study names Harrogate among fastest-growing locations in UK for Land Rovers

Harrogate has been identified as one of the UK’s top 10 fastest-growing locations for Land Rover interest, according to new audience data from Land Rover Monthly.
Big Harrogate Sleepout returns for third year to support local charities

The annual Big Harrogate Sleepout is set to return for a third year in support of two local charities.
Harrogate tech firm shortlisted for six national Tech Awards

Harrogate-based Phase 4 Computers has been shortlisted in six categories at the national Tech Awards 2026.
Harrogate MP calls for new powers to close 'cowboy' vape vendors

Harrogate and Knaresborough MP Tom Gordon has called for new powers to close cowboy vendors and restrict illicit vape shops on the high street.
Harrogate law firm donates vital cancer equipment in memory of colleague

In memory of a late colleague, staff from Harrogate family law firm Jones Myers have donated vital equipment to help enhance the wellbeing and comfort of cancer patients.
Local Hero Awards 2026: Meet the finalists

The Your Harrogate Local Hero Awards return this week to shine a light on the selfless, dedicated and inspirational people across the Harrogate district.
Police appeal after man makes 'sexual gestures' in Ripon

Police are appealing for information in relation to a public order that occurred in Ripon city centre.
Yorkshire voters would reject MPs who back 'holiday tax', major poll shows

Over half (54%) of people in Yorkshire oppose the Government's proposed holiday tax, according to a major new poll.
Harrogate charity Horticap hits the road in new electric vehicle

Harrogate horticultural charity Horticap is going even greener after securing sponsorship for a new electric van from developer the Banks Group.
Harrogate IT provider wins prestigious King's Award for Enterprise

Harrogate-based IT provider Techbuyer has been recognised with a King’s Award for Enterprise for Sustainable Development.
Funding secured for new men's mental health programme in Harrogate district

A new partnership programme designed to support men's mental health across Harrogate district has secured funding from David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire.
Knaresborough Castle repairs finally set to get underway

Reparation and restoration works are finally set to get underway at Knaresborough Castle, according to a local councillor.
Opening date delayed for new-look Furlong and Furrow

The opening of the newly rebranded Furlong and Furrow near Ripon has been delayed by an extra week.
Boutique women's fashion brand opens new Harrogate store

A boutique women’s fashion brand has opened its doors in Harrogate town centre.
Football stars visit Harrogate school to inspire next generation

Two international football stars have shared a first-hand insight into their successful football journeys with pupils at a Harrogate school.
New café opens on Cold Bath Road

A brand new café has opened on Cold Bath Road in Harrogate.
Harrogate student to run length of Britain after losing father to brain cancer

A student from Harrogate is preparing to run the length of Britain, raising vital funds for a charity working to find a cure for the brain cancer that killed his father.
Knaresborough Town Women win West Riding League Cup

Knaresborough Town Women sealed a memorable cup win after winning the West Riding League Cup in dramatic fashion.