March 8, 2006: Robert Sturdy applauds positive
verdict on British beef
Robert and O'Shea's butchers proclaiming
the merits of British beef
Euro MP Robert Sturdy today welcomed
the decision to lift the ban on British beef imports. The ban was
introduced in March 1996 due to fears of BSE and will hopefully mark
the regeneration of a trade that at its peak was worth £675
million.
Mr Sturdy said, "I am delighted
that British farmers are to be
given the chance to sell their products across Europe. I believe
our beef is amongst the best in the world, produced to the highest
standards and able to compete with anyone. However, regaining our
market share will take time. The disappointing thing is that it
has
taken so long for this to happen. We will struggle, at least initially,
but we will get back to where we were and see more cattle grazing
in the green pastures of England. Lessons have been learnt from
mistakes
made in the 90s. Animal welfare standards have increased dramatically,
partly through legislation I helped get through the European Parliament.
Veal crates have been banned, as have other aspects of live animal
transport that caused unecessary suffering to animals. I would
prefer to see more meat exported as opposed to live animals, as
it adds value and improves animal welfare, but at present there
is a market for both and we must do all we can to support British
farmers and animal welfare".
