by Robin Twizell

RMD Agriculture

WHEAT prices have had a slow drift down over the last few days as world supply seems adequate, with Egypt buying Australian wheat as against EU or American. Avian flu is also having an affect as it could significantly reduce wheat demand in China and the Far East.

Oilseed prices are drifting lower on the back of lower soya markets. Soya drifted off as the US did not ban meat and bonemeal in the wake of a BSE case. The weather in South America is rather hot so this puts a question mark over their potential yield.

Thursday's prices

Dalgety Arable, Thorp Arch. - Wheat: Feb £106; Mar £107; April £108. Barley: Feb £91; Mar £92; April £93. Oilseed rape: Feb £177; Mar £178; April £179.

GrainCo, Tyne Dock. - Wheat: Feb £105; Mar £106; April £107. Barley: Feb £91; Mar £92; April £93. Oilseed rape: Feb £180; Mar £181; April £182.