by Robin Twizell

RMD Agriculture

WHEAT prices have lost what they gained last week, mainly because of a lack of new export sales and a surplus still to sell. American markets are coming under a little pressure as Egypt recently bought more Australian wheat and less US. New crop prices have also fallen a little, mainly on the back of good growing conditions for harvest 2004.

Oilseed rape prices have tended a little lower despite higher soya values. Lower South American crops should keep US soya values high, but so far this strength has failed to transfer to oilseed rape markets.

Thursday's prices

Grainfarmers, Thorp Arch. - Wheat: Mar £94; April £95, May £96. Barley: Mar £81; April £82, May £83. Oilseed rape: Mar £173; April £174; May £175.

GrainCo, Tyne Dock. - Wheat: Mar £94; April £95, May £96. Barley: Mar £83; April £84; May £84. Oilseed rape: Mar £175; April £176; May £177.