SCOTLAND MUST BE PROTECTED FROM BLUETONGUE

12.00.00am GMT Tue 3rd Feb 2009

Jim Hume, MSP for the South of Scotland and Liberal Democrat Environment spokesperson, has called for urgent confirmation of reports that cattle from Belgium will shortly be arriving in the North of England and what steps will be taken to minimise any potential risk to Scottish livestock.

As Belgium has been badly affected by the bluetongue virus, effectively the imports would take place in defiance of the voluntary ban supported by all major producer groups in Great Britain.

Commenting, Mr Hume said:

"We cannot afford to take any risks with the bluetongue virus. That is why we need urgent confirmation of reports of Belgian cattle being brought into areas close to the Scottish border.

"So far, Scottish farmers have been fortunate. Bluetongue has not yet infected livestock in this country.

"Other European countries have not been so lucky. The NFU Scotland call for livestock producers to avoid bringing in animals from countries that have been badly affected is a sensible precaution that will help to keep our livestock free of this disease.

"Should the reports prove to be correct, however, I will be asking Scottish Ministers what further steps can be taken to minimise any potential risk to our livestock sector."

ENDS