In a decisive move to safeguard its agricultural sector, Britain announced on Tuesday a ban on imports of hams and a range of other meat and dairy products from Germany. This decision comes in response to a confirmed case of foot-and-mouth disease on the outskirts of Berlin last week.
The British government emphasized that, although there are currently no cases of the livestock disease within the country, the ban is a preventative measure aimed at protecting British farmers and their livelihoods.
“Our priority is to prevent the spread of foot-and-mouth disease to the UK,” a government spokesperson stated. “This ban is essential to shield our agricultural community from potential risks.”
German authorities reported on Friday the nation’s first outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease in nearly 40 years. The disease was detected in a herd of water buffalo near Berlin, raising concerns about the possible spread across Europe.
Foot-and-mouth disease is a highly contagious viral illness that affects cloven-hoofed animals such as cattle, pigs, and sheep. An outbreak can have severe economic consequences due to trade restrictions and the loss of livestock.
British farmers have welcomed the government’s swift action. “Protecting our farms from this disease is crucial,” said John Williams, a livestock farmer in Yorkshire. “An outbreak here would be devastating for the entire farming community.”
The government is urging importers and travelers to comply with the new restrictions and remain vigilant. Enhanced screening measures at ports of entry are expected to be implemented to ensure the ban is effectively enforced.
As the situation develops, authorities in both Britain and Germany are collaborating with international organizations to monitor and contain the disease.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
