EU tests for Avian flu not compulsory

Free range producers whose flocks are selected at random to undergo a test for low pathogenic AI do not have to agree to it.

In September the Ranger reported that the tests—which will lead to slaughter if the disease is found—were compulsory. But, in light of legal issues, Defra has redrafted the letter being sent to those farms selected and the compulsory element has been dropped.

The letter now says “We are seeking your co-operation in helping the UK poultry industry retain its freedom from Avian influenza”.

The survey has been ordered by the EU in an effort to provide an early warning system and help prevent an outbreak of a virulent strain of the disease. The tests will identify the H5 and H7 sub-types which can mutate into a high pathogenic strain of the disease. Free range flocks are being targeted from the commercial egg sector because of the risk of infection from wild birds.

A similar survey carried out last year at processing plants failed to find any positives. Although the aim this time round is to carry out the testing as close to slaughter age as is practicable, Defra say they cannot guaranteed this. If the disease is detected, the birds will be slaughtered as a “precautionary measure” says Defra and restrictions imposed on all poultry units within a 10 km zone. Although compensation will be paid it will only be on market value and there will be no consequential loss.


The British Egg Industry Council says it supports the principles of the survey but has continuously raised concerns at the punitive measures that Defra proposes to take should low pathogenic AI be isolated.

“Free range egg producers will therefore need to consider whether they wish to take part in this survey,” said chief executive Mark Williams. “They will need to balance, on the one hand the usefulness to the overall survey of their flock being tested, and on the other hand the potential effects on their business should LPAI be isolated.”

But BFREPA chairman Tom Vesey said the association’s advice to members with multi-age sites is not to participate.

“We believe the risks are too high to production sites that have more than one age of bird,” said Tom. “We have written to Defra and informed them that while we recognise the value of such a survey, we believe that without proper compensation producers simply cannot put at risk their individual businesses.”