Welcome for lifting of bluetongue restrictions

There was a widespread welcome yesterday for news that bluetongue restrictions will be lifted for livestock exporters, confirming the UK has regained bluetongue-free status.

Rural affairs secretary Richard Lochhead described it as good news for the livestock industry and praised the efforts of Scottish farmers in helping to keep their livestock free from bluetongue. Scotland's chief veterinary officer, Simon Hall, endorsed Lochhead's comments but added a warning that the industry must remain vigilant for any sign of bluetongue.

"I would urge all livestock keepers to continue to source livestock responsibly and to notify their local Divisional Veterinary Manager of any disease suspicions."