FMD Temporary Control Zone imposed
12 September 2007
A suspected case of FMD disease has been discovered 30 miles away from the last outbreak in Surrey.
Government officials declared a three-mile exclusion zone around the affected site this morning.
A pre-emptive slaughter of cattle has been ordered and results of tests are expected from Defra later today.
An NFU spokesman said: "We understand there is a suspected case of FMD and we are looking at this with extreme concern, but we will have to wait for the results of the tests from Defra, expected later today, until we can comment more fully."
Prime Minister Gordon Brown is to chair a meeting of the Government's emergency committee, Cobra.
Chief Veterinary Officer, Debby Reynolds said:
"The containment and eradication of Foot and Mouth Disease is our top priority. This is why we have moved swiftly to put in place a temporary control zone while we investigate this development. At this stage disease has not been confirmed, laboratory results will follow.
"In the meantime, and as always in such circumstances, I reiterate my message to animal keepers to practice the highest standards of biosecurity, remain vigilant for disease and report any suspicions quickly."
Earlier in the summer, two farms tested positive for the disease but the all-clear has since been given.
For the latest on this breaking news keep logging-on to NFU Online throughout today for updates.
Follow the links below for more information. A map of the Temporary Control Zone has been published on NFU Online.
