Farron calls for animal movement restrictions to be reviewed

3.00.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Mon 24th Sep 2007

Local MP, Tim Farron is today urging Ministers to allow farmers to move livestock between farms as soon as possible, this move is essential for animal welfare and to prevent overgrazing and damage to our countryside landscape. Secondly, Mr Farron is calling for general animal movement restrictions to be relaxed on a regional basis to enable sales to take place.

The restrictions need to be removed by the end of next week so as not to completely decimate farm incomes. The government should announce a timetable towards a return to animal movements on a regional basis over the next two days, in order to help farmers plan and prepare, and just as importantly to boost morale in the industry.

Mr Farron said:

"I have spoken to many farmers in my constituency over the past few weeks, and the industry could really do with a shot in the arm. Relaxing the restrictions on movements, so long as it is safe to do so, should be a priority.