THE latest provisional Defra census figures showing a further small reduction in the national pig breeding herd are a disappointment says British Pig Executive (BPEX) Chairman Stewart Houston.

But he is urging producers not to be down hearted as the figures, which do seem to confirm the December figure, do not tell the whole story.

The census shows the UK breeding herd for June 2005 to be, provisionally 463,000 head, a year on year decline of 10% and a fall of about 2.5% from December 2004.

The total number of rearing and finishing pigs, however, has increased by 1.2 per cent, indicating a continued improvement in herd health and productivity.

Mr Houston said: "Though this is disappointing to see there has been a great deal of investment in improving pig health and productivity over the last 18 months.

"This is now starting to deliver benefits. Year on year pig slaughterings over the last three months are up 2.5 per cent and this points to an improvement in herd productivity.

"The investment has continued and so further improvements in productivity can be expected. We are confident these improvements should mean pig supply will be maintained for the rest of this year."