Partnership Key To Lifting EU Export Ban, UK

Main Category: Veterinary
Also Included In: Water - Air Quality / Agriculture
Article Date: 29 Aug 2007 - 2:00 PDT

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BVA President David Catlow last thursday welcomed the decision by the EU's Standing Committee on the Food Chain and Animal Health to lift the ban on exports of live animals and meat products to the rest of the EU.

Commenting on the announcement Mr Catlow said: "I am delighted that the European Commission has the confidence in our disease control measures to allow the resumption of exports following the recent outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease in Surrey.

"The hard work of Defra and Animal Health in cooperation and partnership with industry and the veterinary profession have been key factors in bringing about this development with such speed.

"The industry must not, however, become complacent with regard to Foot and Mouth Disease" he stressed "and we would urge owners of susceptible animals in Great Britain to remain vigilant and report any clinical signs of disease." Mr Catlow reiterated that the veterinary profession was standing by to offer advice on clinical signs and biosecurity measures to concerned animal owners, be they farmers, small holders or owners of just one or two pet farm animals.

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