SOUTH Craven MP Julian Smith is demanding answers over delayed payments to farmers for their milk.
He said dairy co-operative First Milk had announced this week it was deferring payments by a fortnight and also seeking more future capital investment from farmers.
Mr Smith has written to First Milk and to the Secretary of State for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, Elizabeth Truss, over the issue.
"Dairy farming – and particularly the price paid for milk – is always near the top of my agenda and I have met with farmers regularly in recent years to hear about the continual challenge they face," he said.
"This announcement from First Milk has caused understandable concern within the industry.
"I hope to get further clarity from the company about why it has taken this decision."
The Keighley News contacted First Milk for comment, but it hadn't responded as we went to press.
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