N.Z. lambs in steady demand

Press, 2 September 1989, Page 37

N.Z. lambs in steady demand

PA Wellington Demand for New Zealand lamb remained steady in the U.K. this week, the Meat Producers Board reports. In its weekly market report, the board said 'the French market, reopened after the annual holidays, was expected to draw some lambs and push prices up. Lamb stocks were still low, but there was expected to be enough to meet current orders. On Smithfield Market this week, New Zealand PL grade carcases were quoted at about 65 to 66 pence a pound (382 c and 388 c a kg). Domestic lamb prices had fallen by four pence a pound at auction and were relatively unchanged at hook. Supply had more than adequately met the brisk demand, with the main trade being barbe-

cue cuts, the board said. Trade in other meat had been busy, with supplies of fresh beef slightly limited and meeting good demand, particularly for roasting cuts. Beef prices were expected to rise from the middle of this month as trade picked up and the general shortage of beef began to impact. Wholesale port stockists continued to pay high prices for supplies making carcases and cuts an expensive buy. Limited amounts of New Zealand beef were available with high trader to trader activity. Prices for imported beef improved by NZ3c to NZ5c a pound. Imported 95C1 bull beef was quoted at 132 c and 90C1 cow beef at 123 c a pound cif (NZ495c and NZ46IC a kg cif respectively).