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Study to ‘underpin direction of sheep genetics’
"...in the post-Brexit era, we are in a very strong position to influence how best to increase efficiencies in sheep meat production."
Experts aim to maximise genetic, economic and environmental gain

A new study is set to drive the future direction of sheep genetics in the UK, Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) has revealed.

The project team, led by SRUC, will be comprised of industry experts and researchers who will make breeding recommendations to maximise genetic, economic and environmental gain.

Dr Joanne Conington, livestock geneticist at SRUC, said: “This study will underpin the future direction of sheep genetics in the UK.

“It is timely because in the post-Brexit era, we are in a very strong position to influence how best to increase efficiencies in sheep meat production to better meet the needs of meat processors and consumers, while also keeping a close eye on welfare, environmental footprint and sheep meat quality.”

A review will report on the latest global developments in genetic and genomic approaches, and explore how these could enhance productivity and sustainability of the UK sheep flock.

This will inform the development of breeding goals to deliver gains in maternal upland, maternal lowland and terminal production systems. The goals will be further refined through stakeholder interviews and industry workshops.

Ultimately, the team will estimate the economic impact of implementing the breeding goals.

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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.