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

Producers should complete the forms religiously, because then, in the event of an outbreak of foot and mouth or classical swine fever, the infected animals can be quickly traced to their source and, if the gods are smiling on us, the outbreak will be stopped in its tracks.

It is disappointing and embarrassing therefore, that I have been politely taken to task by Defra because during a recent European Commission inspection of disease contingency plans, one pig farm, which was part of a pyramid, was found to have none of the forms to hand.

All producers should be aware that though they may not have needed to complete a movement form in the past, when they moved pigs within a pyramid, they do now. It is not an onerous task and it is essential that it is done religiously if we are to maintain our reputation for being a biosecurity-responsible industry.

At the NPA we are investing time and effort encouraging Trading Standards to concentrate less on paper technicalities and more on the rogues on the fringe of our industry who risk our health status by illegal movements. I urge all producers not to weaken our point with sloppy administration.

Please ensure that you always have the AML2 forms to hand and that you complete them for any movements off farm. Don't forget that Defra have set up an electronic system to enable you to complete these forms on your computer if that eases the paper burden. Get in touch with me if you would like further details about this.

Supplies of AML2 forms are available from your local authority or your local Defra Animal Health Office.

Source: Ian Campbell - National Pig Association - 19th August 2004