Chaos ahead for Welsh livestock markets - Bates

Release/Rhyddhau: 16/02/06

Contact/Cyswllt: Ceirion Rees:
029 2089 8342/ 07733280105/ ceirion.rees@wales.gov.uk 

The Labour Assembly Government has failed to inform farmers and auctioneers about the operation of livestock markets as new laws on TB are introduced.  That was the view today from Montgomeryshire AM Mick Bates.

Following a committee exchange with Countryside Minister, Carwyn Jones, earlier today, Mr Bates said: 

"The Government in Wales has failed to bring in the law on pre-movement testing at the same time as England.  England is making the legislation on the 20^th February, while here in Wales the government has no idea when it will come in to affect.

"In the meantime auctioneers don't know if they can accept tested and un-tested animals in the same market.  It is confusing and can cost the industry a great deal.

"The Government needs to let livestock markets know what they can and what they can't do.  I have today written to the Countryside Minister, Carwyn Jones, requesting urgent clarification".