October 31, 2022

UK government announces new measures to support poultry sector affected by bird flu

The UK Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) has announced new support measures for the poultry industry to assist farmers and producers affected by bird flu, with 200 cases of the virus confirmed over the past 12 months, Gov.UK reported.

The UK government will make changes to the current bird flu compensation programme that will enable farmers to receive compensation prior to planned culling rather than afterward. This will enable the government to make payments more quickly, easing any pressure on cash flow and enabling earlier assurance of compensation eligibility. The payments more accurately reflect how outbreaks affect farmers.

In England, an easement to marketing regulations is also being implemented after consultation with the Food Standards Agency. The measures give meat-producing farmers who raise turkeys, geese, or ducks the option to slaughter their flocks early and freeze the resulting products, which can then be thawed and sold to customers between November 28 and December 31, 2022. Farmers will have assurance with this choice regarding business planning.

Mark Spencer, the UK Farming Minister, said due to the avian flu outbreak, farmers and poultry producers are under significant pressure, and they are aware that many are worried about the effect on their flocks.

Spencer said the government anticipates that the useful solutions made today will contribute to more dependable financial conditions. They will continue to closely monitor the situation and are grateful for the industry's continued cooperation as the country fights this disease.

The Chief Veterinary Officer established a national Avian Influenza Prevention Zone in the UK last week, requiring bird keepers to take strict biosecurity precautions to protect their flocks from this incredibly contagious disease. In addition, until further notice, keepers in Norfolk, Suffolk, and parts of Essex must house their flocks under a regional housing measure.

-      Gov.UK