Biosecurity breaches risk fines
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Drivers breaching strict measures to prevent the spread of foot and mouth in North Yorkshire are being warned that they face the threat of severe action.
Drivers of milk tankers, feed lorries and other trucks going on and off livestock farms in the biosecurity zone around Thirsk must make sure they properly disinfect their vehicles—or risk a fine of up to £5,000 under the Animal Health Act.
The clampdown was announced after the drivers of more than 80 lorries and farm vehicles caught flouting the strict regulations were cautioned last week.
Police and Trading Standards officers are patrolling the area around the clock. and have insisted that they will carry out spot checks without warning.
David Sayer, principal Trading Standards officer at North Yorkshire County Council, insists that those who ignore the regulations are likely to land themselves in court.
He says: "So far we have been advising people who have been caught breaching the requirements. but we will now be looking to compile prosecution reports.
"Drivers must make sure they disinfect their vehicles before moving on and off of farms. I suggest that drivers carry their own cleaning materials, even though there is no law to make them do this, or call the farm to make sure precautions are in place," he says.
The tough measures on disinfection have been welcomed by trade associations, although there have been reservations expressed about some aspects.
• See comment, page 7.