by Robin Twizell

RMD Agriculture

OLD crop cereal prices have improved, owing to the improved value of the euro and lower exports from the Baltic States.The only concern is that, last week, Brussels refused all export subsidies as French markets were well above support levels. New crop values have also improved following currency movements and reduced crop estimates following winter kill in many European countries.

Oilseed prices have also improved, following reduced estimates of yields for the 2003 harvest combined with good demand for oils. This market is, however, very much weather dependent from now on as improved prices could lead to significant higher plantings of spring crops.

Thursday's prices.

GrainCo, Tyne Dock. - Wheat: April £70; May £71; June £72. Barley: April £65; May £65; June £65. Oilseed rape: April £174; May £175; June £176.

Kenneth Wilson, Thorpe Arch. - Wheat: April £65; May £66; June £67. Barley: April £64; May £64; June £64. Oilseed rape: April £174; May £175; June £176