Are Livestock Markets allowed to open?
At present, there is guidance that has been circulated via the Livestock Auctioneers Association (LAA) regarding the permitted continuation of livestock markets.
Can people with sheep on common land move them?
Yes, it is considered that this will be business as usual for most keepers who keep sheep on common land. As such, subject to implementing public health controls relating to social distancing, this can continue.
The business involved in the movement of sheep is not subject to the closure restrictions as detailed in the Health Protection (Coronavirus Restrictions) (England) Regulations 2020. They can continue operating and are permitted to travel for the purposes of work (Regulation 6 (2) (f) ) as this is in the spirit of the principles of Regulation 5 (1) (a).
Who are key workers in the food supply chain?
Critical workers are listed by the government and include those involved in food production, processing, distribution, sale and delivery, as well as those essential to the provision of other key goods.
Farmers are essential to the food supply chain. As such, any person undertaking an activity involved in the agricultural industry for protecting the supply chain would be deemed as a key worker. Examples may include:
- Livestock hauliers
- Animal by-product collectors
- Those who work in slaughter premises
- Feed suppliers
- Poultry catchers
This is not an exhaustive list. There will be other roles in the agriculture sector that be classed as key workers.
Can people attend to their livestock if they live away from where they are kept?
Yes, it is considered that as the owner or keeper of an animal, there is a statutory duty of care with regards Section 9 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006. As such, taking into consideration this legal obligation, this is permitted in accordance with Regulation 6 (2) (h) of the Health Protection (Coronavirus Restrictions) (England) Regulations 2020.
Is TB Testing still continuing?
Latest guidance – published 30.03.2020
There are currently no plans to cancel any statutory requirements for TB testing. This includes the requirements for pre and post movement testing. APHA is continuing to closely monitor the situation, and adjustments to TB testing instructions may be made as appropriate. Further details will follow as the COVID-19 pandemic progresses.
Can people continue to collect weaner / orphan lambs / store animals?
Yes, it is considered that as the owner or keeper of an animal, there is a statutory duty of care with regards Section 9 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006. As such, taking into consideration this legal obligation, this is permitted in accordance with Regulation 6 (2) (h) of the Health Protection (Coronavirus Restrictions) (England) Regulations 2020.
What can people do if they are taken ill and not in a position to look after their animals?
In the first instance, contact must be made with the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA)
Guidance has been produced by Defra giving advice for people with animals.
With the risk of spread of the Coronavirus, do the paper movement documents have to be sent with the animals?
The legal requirements for cattle passports or movement documents for sheep, goats and pigs has not changed. It is suggested that all public health precautions regarding hand washing are followed when handling the documents and gloves may be worn as a protective measure.
As an alternative, movement documents for sheep, goats and pigs may be electronically completed and forwarded electronically to the transporter or the buyer for retention on their mobile phones rather than physically handling a paper document.
What are the rules for keepers that would like to undertake home slaughter?
You can slaughter your own livestock animal on your farm or property if it will be eaten by you and your family. However, you must adhere to the legal requirements set out in the home slaughter of livestock guide England and Wales.
Guidance on home slaughter can also be found on the business companion website.
What organisations can I refer livestock keepers to that may be struggling as a result of Covid 19 or the restrictions?
Livestock keepers can access free, impartial and confidential support from the following organisations by using the following helplines and websites:
Farming Help tel: 03000 111999
Farming Help website
The Farming Community Network (FCN) website
You are not alone (YANA) website
National Directory of Rural Support Groups tel: 0300 323 0400
Lincolnshire Rural Support network (LRSN) website
Tel: 0800 138 1710
The Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution (RABI) website
Tel: 0808 281 9490
Samaritans website
Tel: 116 123
Mind Website
Tel: 0300 123 3393
Further Information can be obtained by contacting the Trading Standards Service on 01724 297664.