Government help not enough

THE NATIONAL Farmers' Union has warned that the Government's aid package to help farmers recover from the foot and mouth and bluetongue crises will only scratch the surface.

The union says that the package, worth an estimated £12.5 million, falls far short of the industry's losses of over £100 million.

Regional chairman Alistair Mackintosh, who farms at Ravenglass, said he was worried about north west farmers who will receive nothing.

He estimates that hill farmers, who will receive extra cash via Hill Farm Allowance, will only receive about £850 per holding under this system.

He added: "There are a great deal of farmers in this region who will receive nothing from this package and will be forced to rely on a market not functioning properly because of foot and mouth restrictions.