After Chris’ milk market report, this week Will and Ben are joined by Michael Oakes, the outgoing NFU Dairy Board Chair, to discuss the long-awaited formal legislation on the regulation of dairy contracts; officially labelled as ‘The fair dealing obligations (milk) regulations 2024’. Michael and Chris talk through the key parts of the legislation and how the guidance document will help both farmers and processors navigate and get the most out of the legislation. They discuss how it will be used in practice, as well as the opportunities with the non-exclusivity aspect, changes in notice periods and leaving terms and how the complaints procedure will work. Lastly, wishing Michael farewell and thanks for all he has done on behalf of the dairy industry as he retires from his role as Dairy Board Chair.