National Pig Association THE VOICE OF THE UK PIG INDUSTRY NPA is active on members' behalf in Brussels & Whitehall, and with processors, supermarkets & caterers - fighting for the growth and pros-perity of the UK pig industry.

The farms have shown that by reducing veterinary inspections to once a week, an experienced pig vet can attend the boars without having any contact with other pigs, thus reducing the risk of spreading disease.

Defra is now satisfied that a suitable internal protocol is in place to enable any early signs of disease to be picked up, evaluated and reported.

Led by PIC's Meritxell Donadeu, the NPA Breeding Companies Group, in conjunction with Defra, drew up the revised protocol that offered the required security and also reduced the cost of inspections.

Debby Reynolds, the government's chief veterinary officer said: "This is a good example of the partnership approach envisaged by the Animal Health and Welfare Strategy. Industry demonstrating where controls could work better; Defra listening and working with the industry to achieve a better protocol that ensures good welfare and reduces disease risk."

Ian Campbell, on behalf of the National Pig Association, said: "This is one of several instances where an improved dialogue between the British pig industry and Government is producing controls that are 'fit for purpose. Nobody gains if controls kill off the economic viability of the British pig industry but equally nothing will do that faster than inadequate national biosecurity leading to further disease incursions."

Source: National Pig Association - 2nd November 2004