MP CALLS UPON DEFRA TO TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR FOOT AND MOUTH DISASTER 

Angus MP Mike Weir has supported demands  on the  UK Department Environment Food and Rural Affairs ( DEFRA) to  secure additional funding support for animal welfare schemes in the wake of the Foot and Mouth and Bluetongue outbreaks south of the border.

The call was made by the SNP during a  House of Commons, statement on the diseases.

Commenting on the demand Mr Weir said   

“In Scotland we have quarter of a million lambs stuck on the hills and islands. The export market has been closed for the two crucial months of Autumn, resulting in massive grazing pressure. This is causing huge problems, particularly for hill farmers.”

“Following advice from the SSPCA and the Chief Veterinary Officer for Scotland, on animal welfare concerns, the Scottish Government has responsibly prepared a Sheep Welfare Scheme. The fact of the matter, however, is that Westminster has the ultimate responsibility for this  not only because they collect taxes but also because the current foot and mouth crisis appears to have emerged from a government laboratory. The UK Government must  live up to its responsibilities and fund the Scottish and Welsh schemes fully.