| 08/08/07           The announcement that farmers in England can start to send cattle
                and sheep to slaughter has been welcomed by the English Beef
              and Lamb Executive (EBLEX). "This will come as a great relief to farmers and the beef
                and lamb supply chain, which can now turn its attention to the
                task of resuming normal trading conditions," said EBLEX
              Chairman John Cross. "From day one of this crisis, EBLEX has focused its efforts
                on the need to ensure both our domestic and export markets are
                given the necessary support to ensure a rapid return to 'business
                as usual' - although this will inevitably take some time. "Yesterday EBLEX launched a major promotional campaign
                encouraging consumers to show their support for farmers by buying
                Quality Standard Mark beef and lamb.  "Promotional kits have been sent to butchers, farm shops
                and caterers in the Quality Standard Mark scheme as part of that
                campaign. The EBLEX team will also be talking at length with
                those in the red meat supply chain who are committed to quality
                beef and lamb to ensure there is a balance between supply and
                demand over the coming weeks."  Statement from Hilary Benn in response to HSE initial report 
  NFU, NSA, NPA, LAA and NBA Joint Statement on Animal Movements 
  Roger Pride gives press conference on FMD outbreak
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