June 7, 2006

UK extends scheme to cover dead animal disposal

The British government has extended funding of GBP20 million (US$37.2 million) for the National Fallen Stock Scheme until November 2008.

The current three-year funding period was to have ended in November 2007.

This extension will allow the government and industry to use existing funding over a longer period to ensure there is a smooth transition to a post-subsidy scheme, said Animal Health and Welfare Minister Ben Bradshaw.

The decision was made after publication of an independent review of the National Fallen Stock Scheme.

The report highlights the scheme as a prime example of government and industry working in partnership, Bradshaw said.

However, the report also pointed out challenging issues about the future of the Scheme, which would require further attention by government and the National Fallen Stock Co, Bradshaw said.

The National Fallen Stock Scheme was set up to assist farmers in meeting their legal obligations for the disposal of dead animals under EU regulations designed to curb the spread of mad cow disease.