Foot-and-mouth to cost more than BSE?

1 March 2001



Foot-and-mouth to cost more than BSE?

By FW reporters

FEARS are growing that the foot-and-mouth epidemic could have a bigger impact on Britains economy than the BSE crisis.

The disease, which was confirmed at 31 locations on Thursday (01 March), will cost UK farmers 21 million a week, according to National Farmers Union figures.

The bill for the whole supply chain is put at 253m a month, and it could take at least 40 days to re-open EU markets once the disease is eradicated.

Non-EU countries may wait as long as six months after the UK becomes foot-and-mouth-free before accepting imports.

The ban on livestock movements will be maintained until 16 March, although Exemptions might license some animal movement to abattoirs.

In addition, the epidemic is having a devastating effect on tourism, sporting events and leisure activities. Countryside tourism is worth about 12bn a year.

In comparison, the BSE crisis cost an estimated 4.6bn – covering public expenditure and the cost to farmers and abattoirs of dealing with the disease.

Meanwhile, the government is considering reviewing its decision not to vaccinate against foot-and-mouth.

Such a move would have huge trade ramifications.

Many countries only accept beef from disease free countries.

But it is impossible to distinguish between animals that have antibodies because of vaccination and those that have the disease.

A spokeswoman from the England Tourism Council said foot-and-mouth could have a massive effect on business if it lasted for more than a few weeks.

She added: “If it does extend to the Easter period it will have a serious impact.”

Representatives from countries in the Six Nations rugby championship will meet on Friday (02 March) to decide whether to postpone the tournament.

Speculation is growing that the Cheltenham Festival (13-15 March) could also be cancelled.