UK sheep producers escape double-tagging requirement

UK SHEEP producers have retained their derogation from double-tagging their animals.

The European Union’s standing committee on the food chain and animal health has given temporary approval to the UK’s application for a derogation to continue with the national system of sheep ID.

The positive outcome means that keepers in Great Britain will be able to continue with the current system of movement (S) and replacement (R) tags instead of having to apply double tags. 

Double tags will only be needed in the case of animals born after 9 July, and intended for intra-community trade. 

But DEFRA has warned that it is important that keepers comply in full with the national requirements. 

Failure to do so could lead to the UK derogation being withdrawn, it said.