The Agriculture Minister says his department IS committed to maintaining Manx food production.

Phil Gawne was speaking after comments from Ramsey Bakery's director, Jim Duncan, earlier this month, who said uncompetitive practices and prices were leaving his firm struggling to compete in the market.

Mr Duncan said the large quantities of loaves "dumped" and sold in supermarkets here for around 55 pence could spell the end for Manx baking if allowed to continue.

The milling and baking industry on the Island generates around six million pounds per year for local businesses.

Phil Gawne says he understands Mr Duncan’s concern but admits there is a balancing act to be struck: