by Robin Twizell

RMD Agriculture

OLD crop prices have drifted a little as end users seem to be happy with the cover they have. New crop prices have remained in their narrow range.

There has been some expectation that prices should have improved as the pound has gone down against the euro. The problem is that, as the euro has risen against the dollar, European prices have fallen, hence stalemate on prices in the UK.

Oilseed prices have improved as American soya markets have risen on the back of slightly lower plantings than expected. There is also concern about disease levels in some French crops.

Thursday's prices

Kenneth Wilson, Thorpe Arch. - Wheat: July £61; Aug £62; Sept £57.50. Barley: July £57; Aug £53; Sept £55. Oilseed rape: July £132; Aug £133; Sept £136.

GrainCo, Tyne Dock. - Wheat: July £63; Aug £55; Sept £57. Barley: July £55; Aug £55; Sept £56. Oilseed rape: July no price; Aug £133; Sept £135