Morrisons’ relations with farmers go sour after legal warning
SUPERMARKET brand Morrisons is threatening legal action against farmers protesting against the low prices of milk.
Trade publication Retail Week has reported that the grocer had begun handing out letters suggesting legal action to protect staff and customers, after an alleged incident in one of the firm’s Scottish stores.
A Morrisons spokesman said: “Recent protests have caused inconvenience to customers and disruption to our stores.
“One customer has already been injured after being caught up in protestor activity. We understand the reasons behind the protests but we ask they take place safely.
“If the activity continues to endanger customers and colleagues, we will take the necessary steps to ensure their safety.”
David Handley, chairman for the Farmers for Action group, the organisation behind the demonstrations said: “Following a meeting with Morrisons on the milk crisis last week, we have had a reply back saying Morrisons are not prepared to negotiate anything whilst being targeted by farmers.
“I think a line has been drawn in the sand and am sure I speak on behalf of the majority of farmers when I say we are not going to be bullied by British retailers.
“All we want is a fair price, a living wage and be able to make a profit from our business, no different than any other corporate business, whether it be British retailing or British food service industry.
“For Morrisons to start saying that they are not going to be threatened into price increasing tells me they are not listening to the message.
“Those young people who every night and day this week have been out peacefully protesting, exemplary in their behaviour trying to secure their future, we need to support them, back them and bring about a radical change in the way British farming is being treated by those greedy corporate both in retail and foodservice sector.”
