Spring lamb producers very angry with buyers

LAMB producers are hoping for more stability returning to the market, following a week of turmoil, as prices plunged for new season lambs and for hoggets.

Lower prices in the UK, and stronger competition in France, contributed to the slide which has left spring lamb producers very angry at the returns they are getting.

There was very little interest in lambs at the factories on Monday, as processors assessed the markets. On Tuesday, there was limited interest in new season lamb, with base prices quoted of 450 cents/kg (160p/lb) — a price cut of 30 to 34 cents/kg in a week. It was much the same story for hoggets, with quotes at 350 cents/kg (125p/lb).