FMD Inquiries and the DEFRA Response
08 November 2002
Mr Peter Jinman, the President of the British Veterinary Association (BVA) welcomed today (Thursday) the publication of DEFRA's response to the FMD Inquiries along with a revised Contingency Plan.
Having previously stressed that "the only way forward is to have a national disease alert system and a variable standstill rule which matches the risk" Mr Jinman welcomed DEFRA's commitment to publishing plans for other diseases and to training staff, rehearsing the plans and to working closely with everyone else who has a role to play, not least local authorities. "Not surprisingly we particularly welcome the setting up of a Science Advisory Group, the additional funding for veterinary teaching and research, albeit that we seek some clarification as to the exact amount payable and over what time span, and the review of priorities insofar as research into animal disease is concerned" he said, noting that "equally important is the development of a Veterinary Surveillance Strategy. Identification of the best use of practising vets in disease surveillance is long overdue."
Mr Jinman reiterated the BVA's commitment to working with government and industry in developing a comprehensive Animal Health and Welfare Strategy which took into account the fact that "each disease outbreak is different and that the best disease control strategy will differ according to circumstances."
Notes for Editors:
- For further information please contact the BVA Press Office on 020 7636 6541.
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