RECENT comparisons between the milk price paid in the past by the

Scottish Milk Marketing Board and what some buyers have offered to pay

producers in April, May, and June next year, have drawn an angry

reaction from the SMMB.

''This tactic of comparing the historical price for milk with what it

might be in the future is manipulation at its crudest,'' said board

chairman Andrew Howie. Producers who were tempted by comparisons of what

the board used to pay, and what direct buyers promise to pay, should

proceed with caution, he urged.

''It's comparing apples with pears. How can any producer predict with

accuracy how much better off he will be next year by opting for one of

the direct buyers? Such calculations take no account of the selling

system to be operated by Scottish Milk, or the barrier free market which

will apply.

''None of the guaranteed minimum prices offered by direct buyers in

Scotland to date is more than the 25.495p per litre they are currently

paying the SMMB for liquid milk. Indeed, some prices quoted are a good

deal less, and only apply for the initial three months.''