319 cent generally for R grade steers

CATTLE supplies increased in the past week, but not enough to dampen the upward trend in prices, as farmers continue to drive hard bargains with processors.

Demand for beef has been strong, although signs of consumer resistance to higher prices are appearing in Britain and on the continent.

For farmers, the good news is that official quotes for this week increased by 6 to 9 cents/kg (2p or 3p/lb), and deals are being negotiated above the quoted prices for quality lots of cattle.