Movement of cross border movement of animals going direct to slaugher can resume from midnight August

Movement of cross border movement of animals going direct to slaugher can resume from midnight August 9. 

Cross-border movements of animals being transferred direct to abattoirs under strict controls will resume from midnight tonight.

Scotland was the first to relax the ban on such movements within its borders.  Similar moves yesterday by England and Wales yesterday have enabled the cross-border traffic to resume.

However, the GB-wide ban remains firmly in place for other animal movements and will be rigorously enforced.

Restrictions will continue to be reviewed in the light of any adverse developments.

Another restriction being lifted is the movement of fallen stock for disposal.  This will be permitted under a general licence from midnight tonight.

Richard Lochhead, Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and the Environment, said:
“This is good news for Scottish farmers who need access to hugely important markets south of the Border.
“The Scottish government has been working flat out all week to ensure that we can respond quickly at every approporiate stage to help get this vital Scottish industry up and running again.
“This is another welcome step in that process.”

Restrictions will continue to be reviewed in the light of any adverse developments.

Scotland’s Chief Veterinary Officer Charles Milne said:
“On the basis of a veterinary risk assessment, I am confident that we can proceed with this relaxation on a strictly controlled basis.
""But It is essential that we remain vigilant and maintain all other protective measures already in place.”