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<p>The Government recognises the importance of sugar beet farmers and their vital
contribution to UK sugar production. We are committed to promoting fairness across
the food supply chain, with risk and reward being properly shared.</p><p> </p><p>We
know that control of aphids and yellow virus, along with weather related problems
- such as dry springs affecting crop establishment and wet conditions during the campaign
harvests – can create issues for beet growers.</p><p> </p><p>Defra’s reach and engagement
with the agri-food sector is extensive and well-established. This includes regular
contact with producers and processors in the UK sugar industry which ensures a strong
two-way dialogue at both a ministerial and official level.</p><p> </p><p>The UK Agricultural
Market Monitoring Group, launched in January 2021, also monitors UK agricultural markets
including price, supply, and trade enabling it to provide forewarning of any atypical
market movements.</p><p> </p><p>These allow Government to collect both data and industry
intelligence on the agricultural sectors, including sugar, to understand any challenges
being faced. We do not consider there is a case for support at this time but will
keep the situation under review.</p>
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