RHA Recovery Group says "Give us a break Mr Livingstone"
Document Actions
Foot and Mouth Fear for Livestock Hauliers
The Road Haulage Association is encouraged by the swift reaction of the authorities to the recent outbreak of foot and mouth disease and is confident that this latest crisis to hit the countryside will end sooner rather than later.
However, hauliers play a vital role in the UK food chain and the Association will be pressing Government for adequate compensation.
RHA Manager responsible for the carriage of livestock, Roger Wrapson said: "Livestock hauliers are still recovering from the last outbreak of this horrendous disease 6 years ago. This latest episode could mean not only the loss of livelihood for individual operators, it could once again mean the loss of skilled drivers from this particular sector of the industry."
The Association has heard of some restrictions being imposed on dairy products as well as live animal and carcase exports of affected species.
Therefore, international operators should be aware that the situation is changing and before any such journey's are undertaken, the Association is advising members to discuss with ferry companies, consignors and/or forwarders the exact nature of organic goods being exported to ensure that loads are not refused exit at the ports.
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs is updating is website as further information is available. www.defra.gov.uk
