"No Need to panic over bird flu" says MP

2.12.42pm GMT Thu 15th Feb 2007

With the recent news regarding the infection of birds with avian flu in Suffolk; local MP Tim Farron has spoken to local poultry farmers and experts on bird flu to find out what the impact could be for the poultry business in the South Lakes.

After his conversations, Tim said: "The clear message from the experts is a loud 'don't panic'! There is no evidence that human's can contract avian flu from eating meat from poultry. People who work with poultry are being vaccinated; but this is a pre-caution initiated by the government.

"I'm pleased that DEFRA have dealt with the issue quickly and that poultry sales locally have not decreased in number."

To calm the fears of local poultry farmers Tim is urging the public to continue buying and enjoying poultry products; and to keep rural sustainability at the front of their minds.