Sugar beet

It follows months of negotiations between the two parties

NFU Sugar Board's chair Michael Sly said he was 'astounded' British Sugar had opted for arbitration and that the strength of feeling amongst beet growers was in no doubt

The NFU Sugar Board said the offer they have made had always been contingent on every element of the contract being aligned, as growers must be able to make an informed choice between all the options

According to British Sugar, the only outstanding contract term which was in dispute was the 'Futures Contract'. They said they will reopen both the contract and seed order screens on Monday, 18th December so growers can confirm their intentions

British Sugar and NFU Sugar have agreed negotiations will recommence this week, aiming to agree a contract for next year as soon as possible

Event launched to showcase possibilities of sugar beet production

Defra has given ‘clear direction’ negotiations should resume after British Sugar offers growers contract despite no agreement with NFU Sugar

The union has written to the Farming Minister asking him to exercise powers available to set the sugar supply price after negotiations broke down and British Sugar communicated its contract offer to growers without agreement

British Sugar said it had made the decision as growers needed certainty as negotiations continue into November

This year's BeetField, arranged by the BBRO, has provided opportunity for growers to hear the latest advice on crop management