Farm virus almost defeated – NFU


18 December 2001



Farm virus almost defeated – NFU

By FWi staff


MOVES to ease foot-and-mouth disease controls signify that the virus has almost been defeated, says the National Farmers Union.


An interim regime from mid-February will see the resumption of cattle markets and the replacement of movement licences with general licences.


NFU leader Ben Gill said the changes, announced on Tuesday (18 December), will make a huge practical difference to farmers in England and Wales.


“This is a massive step forward from the current situation where farmers need a licence for every single movement.


“Farmers will be nothing short of delighted to see at least the start of the re-opening of livestock markets.”


But Mr Gill stressed that there would be a need for further relaxation of the controls towards the end of next year.


“They can be further relaxed next year as we gain experience in the operation of the system and the threat of foot-and-mouth recedes.”


“A key element of future discussions will be the issue of the 20-day movement standstill and the impact this will have on farmers.”


Livestock Auctioneers Association chairman Peter Kingwill said the announcement is a “very positive step in the right direction”.


“The industry still has concerns over the 20-day rule, but we recognise this is an interim measure and are happy to work with it at present.”


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