LOCAL EURO MP CALLS FOR MORE HELP FOR FARMERS ON BLUETONGUE

4.33.56pm BST (GMT +0100) Wed 3rd Oct 2007

Liberal Democrat MEP Liz Lynne has called on the Government to give West Midlands farmers as much pre-emptive advice as possible about how to prevent the spread of the viral disease Bluetongue in cattle, but warns that the only long-term solution to may be the development of a vaccine.

Liz Lynne commented:

"This confirms that this year is turning into a horror story for British farmers. The last thing livestock farmers needed after the Foot and Mouth outbreak in August was the arrival of Bluetongue, which has killed thousands of cattle across Northern Europe."

"All farmers across the West Midlands should now be vigilant. Defra should not underestimate the threat that this disease poses and must ensure farmers are up to date with the necessary advice so they can minimise the risk of cattle and sheep being bitten.

"The only hope there is in the long term may be a vaccine, and when one is developed, I will do all I can to ensure that EU rules do not penalise our local farmers for using it."

"Any export bans caused by Bluetongue will pile the pressure onto small farmers already facing a serious cash crisis and export bans due to Foot and Mouth. The Government needs to provide a package of support for farmers affected as soon as possible.