A nationwide public consultation on the new regulations for exotic diseases of pigs has now been completed, with responses received from the following groups: British Meat Processors Association (BMPA); British Pig Executive (BPEX); EPIC – Centre of Expertise on Animal Disease Outbreaks; Hybu Cig Cymru – Meat Promotion Wales (HCC); Local Authorities and the National Animal Health and Welfare Panel (NAHWP); National Farmers Union Scotland (NFUS); National Pig Association (NPA) and the Pig Veterinary Society (PVS).

All agreed that there is benefit in consolidating the legislation for the three pig diseases.

In the summary of the responses, Defra explains that the legislation will implement EU law (namely Directive 2001/89/EC for CSF, Directive 2002/60/EC for ASF and Directive 92/119/EC for SVD), which require EU Member States to take strict control measures to eradicate disease quickly and effectively if an outbreak occurs in its territory.

The new legislation aims to be clear and transparent about the measures to be taken during an outbreak of one of these diseases in Great Britain, which should reduce the impact of any outbreak by aiding compliance and enforcement of controls. In addition, the legislation will improve the transposition of the EU law. Government needs the appropriate legal powers to deliver a fast and effective response to any outbreak of CSF, ASF or SVD, according to Defra. The overall aim is to reduce the total costs and burdens of the disease outbreak to businesses and taxpayers.