Hard to get R cattle for less than 297 cent

THE cattle supply to factories seems to be tighter this week, and prices quoted by processors improved by up to 3 cents/kg (1p/lb), as cattle bookings into factories eased.

The intake of cattle to factories had increased recently to about 34,500 head - 6,000 ahead, compared to last year. Most of the extra stock were steers and heifers. But this week, as supplies tended downwards, it was difficult for processors to get any R grade cattle for under 297 cents/kg (106p/lb), and most were paying 297 to 300 cents/kg (106 or 107p/lb) across the south.

A further 3 cents/kg (1p/lb) was paid in the midlands, and in the north west, the going rate was 308 cents (110p).