The government plans to introduce a new mandatory phase of the Animal Health and Welfare Pathway and is seeking views on proposed new measures to strengthen livestock health and welfare for cattle, sheep and pigs in England.
The NFU has been formulating its response and has heard from members of the NFU national Livestock and Dairy Boards to ensure their concerns have been captured.
The NFU's response, including where we accept and reject the government's proposals plus issues we intend to raise, are set out below (NFU members will need to be logged in).
Have your say
If you are a dairy, beef or sheep farmer, you can add additional comments to those set out below by emailing the NFU's Chief Animal Health and Welfare Adviser at: [email protected]. Please submit feedback before 6 May.
Areas we are seeking comment on include:
- Animal health plans
- BVD eradication
- Enforcement
- Expected impacts on the farming community
The government's consultation will close on 18 May 2026. You can feedback directly at: GOV.UK | Animal Health and Welfare Pathway: Mandatory proposals
Sign in if you’re already a member