READING DICK Esslemont's Viewpoint (‘Improving dairy cow welfare’, VR , April 23, 2011, vol 168, pp 433–434) was reassuring, as it confirmed that the efforts of the National Farmers' Union (NFU) and other industry representatives and members of the Cattle Health and Welfare Group (CHAWG) are well timed and relevant. The Dairy Cow Welfare Strategy was developed for industry by the NFU just eight months ago, in conjunction with the British Cattle Veterinary Association, DairyCo, Holstein UK, the Royal Association of British Dairy Farmers and the CHAWG. It acknowledged current welfare performance, promoted industry achievements, examined drivers for improvement and identified areas and responsibilities for further improvement throughout the dairy supply chain. This is a ground breaking …