SHEEP TAGGING TO ADD 'UNNECESSARY FINANCIAL BURDEN' TO LOCAL FARMERS

12.00.00am GMT Thu 10th Jan 2008

A West Midlands Euro-MP has criticised the decision by European Agriculture Ministers to impose mandatory electronic tagging of sheep and goats by the end of 2009.

Liz Lynne MEP, Liberal Democrat Joint Agriculture Spokesperson in the European Parliament feels that the measures are unnecessary and overbearing, and will cause huge financial strain to local farmers.

Speaking today she said:

"I regret that Agriculture Ministers across the EU have voted to adopt these measures which add no extra value or security to existing UK arrangements. The batch-tagging system offers sufficient security.

"This decision could not have come at a worse time for farmers as they will add untold cost implications at a time when they are still reeling from the multiple crises of Foot and Mouth Disease, Bluetongue and summer flooding, as well as low market prices.

"Although a delay in the implementation has been agreed until December 2009, I agree with the majority of farmers in my constituency who feel the decision to introduce extra tagging is wrong. Yet in the light of what has been agreed, the government now need to offer a robust system of financial aid to help farmers with the cost of adjusting to the new regime."

ENDS