Scottish Red Meat Sector Up and Running

Scottish Red Meat Sector Up and Running
08/08/07

NFU Scotland President Jim McLaren has praised the Scottish Executive, the Chief Veterinary Officer and authorities for their swift action to get the Scottish red meat industry back up and running.

Following discussions between NFUS, other industry bodies and the Executive, and guided by veterinary advice, farmers are now allowed to move stock direct to abattoirs. There are currently 22 abattoirs open for business and reports to NFUS suggest everything is operating smoothly.

Farmers do not have to apply for a licence to move stock to an abattoir. These movements are the subject of a general licence, which requires farmers to follow certain rules.

Abattoirs have to go through an approval and authorisation process.

NFUS President Jim McLaren said:

“It is a credit to the Executive, the state vets and other industry bodies who have all worked together to get the red meat supply chain back up and running.

“Clearly, every single step we take to ease restrictions is being guided by the best available veterinary advice. Disease protection is the over-riding priority, hence the critical importance of the ongoing movement ban.

“Only movements direct to slaughter, those required to milk cows or give animals emergency veterinary treatment are allowed. That still leaves many farmers under extreme pressure and with concerns on welfare issues. We are in constant discussions with government stressing the need for further relaxation as soon as the veterinary experts are satisfied that it won’t expose us to further disease risks.”

The Scottish Executive foot and mouth helpline is 0845 155 33 66

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