Last updated 21:54, Wednesday, 09 July 2008

DUMFRIESSHIRE MP David Mundell has spoken out against the implementation of an EU regulation which will require ‘electronic tagging’ of all individual sheep movements.

An EU regulation which will require ‘electronic tagging’ of all individual sheep movements is due to come into effect at the end of next year. Farmers say the extra red tape involved is unnecess-ary and will place a tremendous burden on their businesses

He says such a move could be ‘the straw that breaks the camel’s back’ for many farmers.

His comments come after a delegation of sheep farmers, livestock auctioneers and meat processors met secretary of state Hilary Benn in London.

Mr Mundell said: “This unnecessary red tape could put many sheep farmers out of business.

“My meetings with farmers have shown me they are already overburdened with regulations and electronically recording the movements of each individual sheep is unnecessary.

“As NFU Scotland says, we already have a system of sheep identification in this country which is based on batch recording and, together with movement standstills, delivers a simple and efficient system to control the spread of animal diseases.

“I believe that any movement to electronic ID should be voluntary and the government should take a strong stand to have this heavy-handed EU proposal halted.’’

The scheme is planned for implementation at the end of 2009.