Euro-MP Robert Sturdy has urged the public to support the poultry industry during the latest outbreak of bird flu.
He said:
“This couldn't have happened at a worst time for poultry farmers in the region, it is the busiest and most important time of their year. The extent of the impact will obviously depend on how long restrictions are in place and on whether the outbreak has been contained in the area.
“However, I would like to offer some reassurances to enable the public to continue buying poultry without fear. The World Health Organisation and the Food Standard agency have confidently stated that there is no risk in eating cooked poultry meat or eggs. Bird flu remains difficult for humans to catch and as yet the virus has not mutated into a form that can be spread from human to human.
“I urge the public to have faith in our agricultural community, to have confidence that all essential precautionary and safety measures are being enforced, and to support our local poultry farmers.
“Turkey is a great Christmas tradition – and this festive season will hopefully not be an exception.”
