Scotland's Potential Application For Officially Tuberculosis Free Status

Scottish Government officials met with livestock industry stakeholders to discuss the potential for submitting an application to the European Commission for recognition of officially tuberculosis free regional status for Scotland.

Simon Hall, Chief Veterinary Officer (CVO) for Scotland, outlined the current TB situation in Great Britain and presented the veterinary justification for Scotland's case to be recognised as Officially Tuberculosis Free.

An initial cost benefit analysis carried out by Scottish Government economists identified the financial benefits that would accrue through from prevention of future disease incursion and the costs associated with controlling the disease as well as future access to the export market.

The Scottish Government and stakeholders agreed on the importance of keeping disease out of Scotland, and there was a general consensus about the principle of achieving tuberculosis free status.

It was accepted that gaining OTF status would enhance our capacity to keep disease out of Scotland, and that it should provide a platform for Scotland to move forward as a provider of both quality livestock and enhance our already established and recognised quality meat brand.

Reservations were expressed nevertheless from two sectors, the auctioneers and meat wholesalers. Both were very concerned that the sustainability of abattoirs and markets could be compromised by the potential for any reduction in the supply of cattle coming to Scotland. The timing of any changes would need to be considered carefully to avoid this.

Further economic assessments will be undertaken in response to the concerns registered before the Cabinet Secretary is invited to consider submitting the application.