Register bid to beat avian flu

5:44pm Friday 16th December 2005

POULTRY keepers are being urged by the Government to officially register their birds to help the fight against avian flu.

New regulations oblige owners of flocks of 50 or more to join the scheme, while smaller-scale producers are being asked to register voluntarily.

Agriculture minister Ben Bradshaw said: "Currently no central database of poultry flocks exists.

"The aim of the register is to gather essential information about birds on commercial premises across Great Britain so we can build up a better picture of the size, type and proximity of flocks.

"This should be seen as an essential disease prevention measure.

"The information on this register will help us improve our contingency planning to help manage any potential disease outbreak."

The register is supported by the National Farmer's Union and the National Gamekeepers Organisation.

Registration forms can be requested on 0800 6341112, or downloaded from the Defra website at: www.defra.gov.uk