FMD Restrictions Continue to Unwind but Vigilance Still Key
13/08/07

NFU Scotland is commending the fast unwinding of restrictions associated with the Foot and Mouth outbreak in Surrey, whilst reminding producers of the importance of adhering to the remaining restrictions.

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Over the weekend, the Scottish Executive announced that islands are now exempt from many of the major restrictions imposed as a result of the foot and mouth. Agricultural shows, markets, auctions and movement of all animals can resume within each island.

Orkney, Shetland and the Western Isles will no longer be in the restricted zone which means livestock transfer between islands commenced again at midnight on Saturday 11 August.

In addition, a specific licence in now available to enable the movement of Foot and Mouth susceptible livestock directly between two premises within a farm business not more than 20 kilometres apart as the crow flies, in cases where animal welfare is a concern.

Nigel Miller, NFU Scotland Vice-President, said:

“This situation is changing at such a fast pace and we must commend the authorities for taking such prompt action to alleviate some of the problems faced by farmers as a result of the Foot and Mouth outbreak in Surrey.

“In particular, some of our members have had concerns over animal welfare issues as a result of the movement ban, for example, pigs getting overcrowded, and so it is extremely encouraging to see these concerns being addressed. We know that there are many other concerns and we are working on an hourly basis with vets and officials to address these.

“Many will benefit from the flexibility that has been introduced over the weekend, but it is still absolutely essential that we remain vigilant and maintain all other protective measures already in place. Breaches will prejudice the flexibility that has already been introduced and may also jeopardise the resumption of exports.

“It is essential that producers continue to adhere to the GB wide movement ban, unless their circumstances fall within the published general or specific licenses for movement.

“It is only with one hundred percent commitment from the industry that we will be able to continue to move forward and get the situation back to normal as fast as possible.”

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