Effective research, development and knowledge transfer are the key to helping the British pig industry become more competitive and deliver benefits to society.

That is the central message in the draft research and development strategy launched today (Thu) by the British Pig Executive (BPEX).

It is the culmination of one of the most comprehensive reviews of pig related research, development and knowledge transfer ever undertaken in Great Britain It is also the culmination of wide- ranging discussions with producers, processors, allied industries, academics, government and government agencies. The BPEX board is recommending this strategy to the industry and to other stakeholders.

BPEX Chairman Stewart Houston said: "We want this to be a dynamic process. "This strategy represents an opportunity for the British pig production and processing industry to make progress on the Road to Recovery.

"It has the capability of delivering improved cost-competitiveness and public goods such as sustainability, pig welfare and respect for the environment. "The strategy will need commitment from levy payers as the BPEX Board is recommending a significant increase in the amount of levy to be spent on research, development and knowledge transfer that will come from within existing resources.

"We are looking from the same commitment from other funders of pig research such as government and its agencies.

"We would like your views on this strategy so that we get it right. Above all, we would like your support so that, together, we can help the whole industry move forward."