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Scotland to apply for upgrade in BSE status
cow
Scotland has been BSE-free since 2009 and has had no cases in animals born since 2005.

'Negligible risk' status could create new export opportunities

Scotland's rural economy secretary, Fergus Ewing, has unveiled the government's plans to apply for BSE negligible risk status.

The upgrade in status could bring new export opportunities for Scottish producers, Mr Ewing said, as he made the announcement at the Royal Highland Show.

"Our premium produce is world-renowned but there are countries to which we are currently unable to export Scotch Beef and Scotch Lamb," he said.

"Achieving BSE negligible risk status could help open up markets across the world for these premium products, and potentially reduce waste and inefficiencies in the supply chain worth more than a million pounds."

Scotland has been BSE-free since 2009 and has had no cases in animals born since 2005.

Countries or regions are required to adhere to strict requirements before they can apply for the change in status, and at least 11 years must have passed since the birth of an animal with BSE.

Mr Ewing continued: "If Scotland were to successfully apply for and be upgraded to BSE Negligible Risk status, we could be the first region in the world to do so."

The Scottish government will formally consult on its plans this summer.

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Defra shares new Sanitary and Phytosanitary guidance

News Story 1
 Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.

The agreement, which will change the movement and trade of animals and related products, could see reductions in checks, paperwork and certification. As well as describing regulatory developments, the advice highlights the importance of animal ID, registration and traceability in disease control and other compliance arrangements.

The guidance can be found here. More detail is expected as negotiations progress. 

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News Shorts
Lords Committee opens Pet Parasite Medication inquiry

The House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee will launch its inquiry into Pet Parasite Medication (PPM) on Wednesday (3 June).

Focusing on treatments containing fipronil and imidacloprid, the inquiry will seek to understand distribution pathways and the impacts of PPM use and non-use on biodiversity and human health. It will also cover current regulation, monitoring, and the potential implications for pets and their owners.

The committee will hear evidence from environmental non-governmental organisations and research institutes. The public can follow the proceedings live on Parliament TV or in person in the Palace of Westminster.