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National Pig Association THE VOICE OF THE UK PIG INDUSTRY NPA is active on members' behalf in Brussels & White-hall, and with pro-cessors, supermarkets & caterers – fighting for the growth and pros-perity of the UK pig industry.

With little more than a month to go before some 10,000 pig keepers will have to change their existing herd identification equipment, Edward Holt Industries says it is surprised by the poor response to upgrade equipment, given the threat of fines and rejection of pigs at abattoirs.

"Having consulted with other major suppliers of slapper tattoo equipment, we are all wondering when the rush for new equipment (or at least the replacement of tattoo plates) will begin," said Edward Long.

"As of now, none of the major suppliers alone, will be able to satisfy the demand. One supplier is currently quoting a six week delivery time."

"Not having to import we are in a reasonable position but we are already up to a four day turn around.

"Most of the equipment already supplied is the slapper starter kit, which is being purchased by producers who have never before slapped their animals but have had the forethought to order equipment early."

Edward Holt Industries are able to supply six character tattoo plates to fit Holt, Ritchey, Fearing and Ketchum Farmers shoulder tattoo handles, but given the time scale will be hard pushed to complete all expected orders in time.

"With the exception of the NPA, many organisations have not even responded to our approaches regardless of the impact that no action will have on their members. It’s not as if we in the industry didn’t see this coming months ago!"

Source: National Pig Association - 23rd September 2003