Improved licence process enhances trading options for TB restricted cattle

Published on Thursday 28 July 2011 at 15:41

From 1 August 2011, livestock keepers in England and Wales can apply for a licence that allows the general movement of cattle from restricted premises through a TB approved slaughter gathering, or ‘ TB red market’, before onward movement direct to slaughter.

Under previous rules keepers wishing to sell TB restricted cattle via a red market had to apply to their local AHVLA office for a licence at least five days before each proposed movement, detailing the ear tag numbers of the specific animals being moved.

The new licence offers greater flexibility to keepers - authorising movements of clear tested cattle within a restricted herd for a period up to 90 days after the last complete TB herd test. Owners are responsible for adding relevant ear tag numbers to a copy of the licence at the point of sale, with the advantage that they will be able to pick out cattle at the time of loading rather than having to record identification numbers in advance.

Defra, the Welsh Government, AHVLA, BCMS and the Livestock Auctioneers Association worked in partnership to develop this change in licence conditions.

Movements will be monitored and regularly audited to ensure compliance.

Contact your local AHVLA office for further information.

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