Farmers’ chance to quiz DEFRA

Farmers will be able to quiz DEFRA staff and discuss their views on topics such as bovine TB, bluetongue and electronic identification of sheep as the Livestock Market roadshow makes a return.

Kicking off today (March 13) in Hexham and Exeter, the UK-wide tour will consist of visits to more than 80 markets throughout the year, giving farmers the chance to talk directly to government representatives about areas that affect the industry.

Farming Minister Jane Kennedy hopes farmers will take this opportunity to talk to DEFRA officials about their concerns and issues. “We’re here to listen as well as provide information, and I’m looking forward to attending one of the roadshows myself,” she said.

“I know for a fact that farmers feel strongly about the direction their industry should be heading, and this is an excellent opportunity for them to speak face to face with government.

Last autumn DEFRA visited 77 markets and spoke to more than 3200 farmers. Over the course of this year they will visit more than 80 markets.

• To find out when and where DEFRA will be visiting go to http://www.defra.gov.uk/animalh/diseases/control/markets/index.htm