Two more weeks of pig export bans for UK
The ban on exports of pigs, pork and other meat from Great Britain to other countries in the European Union will most probably be extended for the next two weeks.
That was the result of a meeting of veterinary experts in Brussels yesterday.
A ban was imposed on all exports – including pork – due to two outbreaks of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) at cattle farms in the county of Surrey last week.
FMD affects not only cattle, but also pigs, sheep and goats.
Continuation
The vets unanimously voted in favour of continuation the export ban, however, they can relieve any measures if they feel circumstances allow this.
At August 23, the vets will meet again to discuss further measures.
The British government decided that farmers in the UK are allowed to transport livestock to slaughterhouses again as from today – strict rules apply however.
Forbidden
Only in the security zone near Pirbright in Surrey any livestock transports remain forbidden.
The cause of the outbreak still remains unclear. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is doing more research into this.
Related websites:
• Health and Safety Executive
• European Union
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