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Foot and Mouth
17/08/2007
Livestock from Scotland's islands can now be transported under strict controls to the mainland.
Island farms face particular problems at this time of year in moving large numbers of stock to the mainland for grazing and fattening. From midnight tonight they can now despatch to a single farm premises on the mainland.
The effect of this measure following other relaxations last week is that agricultural life on the islands can begin to get back to normal.
Richard Lochhead, Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and the Environment, said:
"Next week sees the European vets' meeting on Thursday. The Scottish government is doing all it can to make the case for Scotland to get back into export markets as quickly as possible.
"This is a key priority and next week is clearly a crucial week and provided the disease remains contained in the south of England, I am optimistic that real progress can be made to get the industry further along the road to normality.
"I have written to Secretary of State Hilary Benn and spoken to other UK Ministers and also my counterpart in Wales. We are working closely together to make the strongest case for lifting of the GB-wide export ban." "In the meantime, I am announcing further relaxations for many anxious island farmers.
"We will do whatever we can as quickly as we can - as long as it is judged safe and the right time to do so. I know that farmers are desperate to get back to normality and I pay tribute to them for their patience and understanding at this time." Notes to Editors:
The Scottish government helpline for farmers is 0845 1553366