Sir Nicholas Soames: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what recent assessment she has made of the confidence of farmers operating in the dairy sector; and if she will make a statement.

George Eustace, Minister of State for Farming, Food and the Marine Environment: The Government understands that many dairy farmers currently find themselves in a difficult position. We hope the recently announced EU support package we secured will offer some relief while we continue to pursue a host of additional measures, such as the creation of a futures market for dairy and better branding and labelling in supermarkets. 81% of dairy farmers across the UK have now received their payment.

We continue to work closely with farming unions to improve the stability of the industry as a whole and help farming businesses become more resilient. This will prepare us to benefit from the growing demand for British dairy both at home and overseas.