SUPPORT for the proposed merger of the two farmers? milk co-operatives has come from the prospective Conservative candidate for Central Devon. Mel Stride voiced support for the merger of Milk Link and First Milk after a meeting with Brian Kerr, managing director of Taw Valley Creamery, North Tawton. Milk Link owns several dairy plants in the UK, including the creamery. First Milk also has a significant market presence processing 1.8-billion litres annually. Both co-operatives are owned by their members, 4,200 dairy farmers. After a tour of the plant, Mr Stride said: ?It is good news that these two farmers? co-operatives are now in the advanced stages of full merger. Large supermarket chains have all too often been able to hold down the price farmers receive for their milk and this consolidation amongst suppliers will hopefully help to restore some balance by giving milk producers more leverage in their price negotiations.?
