FMD Update - 1530 9th August 2007

We still only have 2 IPs, lab results being confirmed from last premise slaughtered yesterday as a Dangerous Contact.   At least 36 suspected case reports across England have been cleared and other reports are under investigation. The reporting of suspected cases is expected and shows that keepers are being vigilant and inspecting their stock. The situation is still fluid and it is critical that we maintain vigilance and bio security

A strong team from Defra attended SCOFCAH in Brussels yesterday. Northern Ireland’s separate treatment was confirmed and issues relating to meat already exported were resolved. The next meeting was fixed for 23 Aug, which could be helpful when we look at exit strategy.

The key stakeholder group continues to focus on prioritising issues for Defra to work on and discussing those issues. The intention as you have seen with move to slaughter is simplicity and having everything in place so that it runs smoothly.

Small movements in the RZ for General Welfare (road crossing etc) are under constant review and are a top priority.

Collection Centre policy is being worked on and prepared for use when allowed but this won’t happen in the next 24 hours.

At midnight August 9 – cross border movements (into and out of Scotland) of animals moving direct to slaughter will be permitted.

There are still issues with meat labelling which are close to resolution but they will be a problem to processors as will 5th quarter placements.

The derogation to grazing on set aside applies to England and Wales.

Fallen stock that died more than 3 days ago is unresolved in England, a derogation for it to be buried in Wales has been agreed.   The fallen stock priority at the moment is a policy for the SZ and PZ.   In Scotland, the Fallen Stock Scheme will commence at midnight August 9.   Clarification on on-site burial will follow after this period.

Regionalisation for parts of GB is being considered and will come forward on the agenda next week but it does place a burden on the industry and once it is fully understood the burden may be considered heavier than the benefit.   But this is still to be addressed.

The main priority at this stage is focussed on containing the disease and addressing welfare.

Indicators are that sheep and cow prices will suffer until export reopens but prime beef prices should stand up but will be under pressure.