Sir; The recent report on the problems at Unigate and its proposal to increase its requirement for imported pigmeat by up to 50% begs the question: why? With one of the largest and most modern pig slaughtering and processing plants in the EU here in Yorkshire, how can it make sense? The company, I see, has stated it is "concerned there may be inadequate supplies of British pigs in the near future". This comment would almost be humourous in an ironic sort of way, were it not for the tremendous human misery beyond that statement. For "inadequate supplies", read primary producers driven to breaking point, broken businesses, broken families and broken lives. And why? Because of broken promises by high street retailers and processors. Unigate does not want to hold facilities that run at half speed. No, that pressure can only come from their customers ­ they who publicly and openly admit that British pig meat is produced to the highest standards in Europe (indeed the vast majority of non British pigmeat is produced in a way that would be illegal here in Britain). And yet their words are not matched by actions. Imported pigmeat was up over 18% in the first half of this year, including 12,000 tonnes of French pork. Imports of Belgium pork were up by 51%. We have spent years encouraging and extolling pig producers to become more market focused, to listen and respond to retailers' needs. They have generally responded very positively. Retailers must also have long-term strategies and objectives, perhaps some of which include a secure supply of the safest foods. among the multiple retailers, Waitrose has shown it is possible to share these ideals. The question is, are any of the other retailers and manufacturers prepared to look past the "quick buck mentality" for their customers', their suppliers' and ultimately, their own benefits? We urge them to act now before it is too late to save the UK pig production industry. Greg Mowbray Pig Marketing Manager Meadow Valley Livestock Stratford-upon-Avon {{LETTERS }}