Task Force Chair Announced

SCOTLAND - Gordon McKen will chair the pig industry task force. His appointment was annouced by Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and the Environment Richard Lochhead yesterday.

24 April 2008

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In the chair, Gordan McKen.

It is only a week since Mr Lochhead announced his intention to form the group, and an initial meeting was held yesterday to agree task force membership and terms of reference. Robin Traquair of NFU Scotland, Stuart Ashworth from Quality Meat Scotland, and Brian McMonagle, the managing director of Halls of Broxburn in attendance.

The task force will consider the need for additional industry representation and possible actions to assist the pig sector that may include:

a vaccination programme for pig wasting disease
an audit of standards, transparency and labelling of imported pork
improved food labelling
a support scheme for producers continuing in business

Mr McKen is Managing Director of Scottish Pig Producers Ltd and a Director of Wholesome Pigs (Scotland) Ltd. He is a member of the QMS Board and Chair of QMS's Pig Forum and Standard Setting Body. He is also a member of the NFU Scotland (Pigs Working Group).