DEFRA, the Government arm responsible for bird flu in the UK, has failed to identify the source of the recent outbreak at Bernard Matthew's site in Suffolk. This is unacceptable.
I agree that the identification system has obviously failed us in this case. But we should be careful where we point the finger.
DEFRA executed the National preparedness plans with professionalism and vigilance. It should be praised for its effort in ensuring the proper protection and surveillance zones were implemented and the decontamination of the site was dealt with thoroughly without excessive disruption or delay.
This case not only reminds us that the threat of avian influenza is still present, it leads us to question even further the safety of our imports, that standards need to be raised. Improved monitoring of migratory bird patterns, vigilance over imports of birds and poultry, strict labelling and point of origin controls and greater co-operation between agencies and Member States is needed now.
