Dr Judith Bryans, chief executive of Dairy UK, said: “We fully support the UK Government’s stated aim of reaching agreement with the EU in order to secure frictionless trade in goods and services. We are also pleased to see the Government has recognised the importance of agri foods in today’s position paper.

“Businesses need certainty around the legalities associated with ensuring they can continue to trade in goods at the point of Brexit. The EU is our biggest export market and recognition of the need for stability is welcome.

“Dairy is a hugely important industry to the UK and while many industries are seeking priority during complex Brexit negotiations we contend that dairy should be recognised as being fundamental to the country’s future interests given the role we play in providing safe and nutritious food to the nation.

“We will offer the Government every possible assistance in securing arrangements that will minimise disruption to consumers and dairy businesses and will help the UK dairy industry take advantage of the opportunities that Brexit may yield.”