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Key issues discussed at dairy forum

Strategy papers presented to industry members

Animal health and welfare, knowledge exchange and research and development were the key issues at a recent Dairy Science Forum (DSF).

The object of the event was to look at ways to help protect the future competitiveness and sustainability of the dairy farming industry.

Guests from throughout the dairy sector were invited to attend the event, which was held at Porthcullis House in Westminster and hosted by MP Rory Stewart.

Three strategy papers were presented and followed up with group discussions. Guests were then given the opportunity to put forward suggestions.

Overall, there was a great deal of consensus on the key points.

David Black, DSF chairman, said: "We aimed to help align the thinking throughout the dairy industry by producing these strategy papers and identifying what we saw as the key issues."

He added that the basis of animal welfare is to address the needs of the animals themselves so that they are healthy and productive.

"We are in a position to empower farmers and advisers with the information they need and give access to evidence-based science so that the UK industry becomes ever more vibrant and competitive in world markets."

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Birmingham Dogs Home makes urgent appeal

News Story 1
 Birmingham Dogs Home has issued an urgent winter appeal as it faces more challenges over the Christmas period.

The rescue centre has seen a dramatic increase in dogs coming into its care, and is currently caring for over 200 dogs. With rising costs and dropping temperatures, the charity is calling for urgent support.

It costs the charity £6,000 per day to continue its work.

Fi Harrison, head of fundraising and communications, said: "It's heart-breaking for our team to see the conditions some dogs arrive in. We really are their last chance and hope of survival."

More information about the appeal can be found here. 

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News Shorts
Avian flu confirmed at premises in Cornwall

A case of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been detected in commercial poultry at a premises near Rosudgeon, Cornwall.

All poultry on the infected site will be humanely culled, and a 3km protection zone and 10km surveillance zone have been put in place. Poultry and other captive birds in the 3km protection zone must be housed.

The case is the second avian flu case confirmed in commercial poultry this month. The H5N5 strain was detected in a premises near Hornsea, East Riding of Yorkshire, in early November. Before then, the disease had not been confirmed in captive birds in England since February.

The UK chief veterinary officer has urged bird keepers to remain alert and practise robust biosecurity.

A map of the disease control zones can be found here.