Beef price cut adds to weather misery on farms

A sharp drop in beef prices at factories this week has shaken the confidence of farmers already coping with severe weather difficulties.

While some price adjustment in July was expected, in line with the seasonal pattern of the trade, the scale of the cut inflicted has been far greater than anticipated so early in the season.

Processors are being accused of taking advantage of the difficulties for many farmers experiencing the wettest summer for many decades.