Rules on British pork exports relaxed
On Wednesday, the EU's Standing Veterinary Committee decided that some British pork meat can be exported for the first time since the foot-and-mouth outbreak began, writes BBC News. Margaret Beckett, secretary of state, welcomed the decision but warned that Britain should not let its guard down against the disease.
The relaxation of exports will apply only to pigs reared in counties that have remained clear of the disease. About half of British pig farms will benefit from the decision, according to the Times.
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Whilst Scotland's rural development minister, Ross Finnie, welcomed the developments, he expressed disappointment that sheep meat had not also been included. He said that he would meet the Commission on Friday to discuss the resumption of lamb and mutton exports from Scotland.