Lamb prices surge at factories

Marts: Lamb prices surged at the factories yesterday as the immediate impact of the most recent outbreaks of foot-and-mouth disease in Surrey turned to the benefit of producers with finished lambs — which are scarce.

Official quotes for lambs at the factories showed gains of up to 50c/kg (18p/lb) as demand by the processors to secure additional supplies intensified.

Producers report that up to 20c/kg (7p/lb) above the quoted prices is being paid in direct deals with factories and their agents for quality lambs.