Concerns grow over diseases threatening UK food supplies

Officials are raising alarms about dangerous animal diseases spreading in Europe that could threaten farming and food supplies in the UK. Recent outbreaks of foot and mouth disease have been reported in Germany and Hungary. There is also a growing concern about African swine fever affecting pig farms across Europe, combined with ongoing issues like avian influenza and the bluetongue virus. An urgent call for action comes as "bushmeat" is being sold on social media, raising fears that it could introduce new diseases. Shadow Environment Secretary Victoria Atkins has expressed her worries in a letter to the Government, highlighting the potential economic impact. She noted that previous outbreaks, like the one in 2001, cost the UK economy billions. Atkins is asking for random inspections at the Port of Dover to ensure biosecurity measures are in place. She wants the Government to provide assurances on handling these threats. In response, a Government spokesman stated that they are committed to protecting farmers and the food industry. They are investing over £200 million to create a new National Biosecurity Centre. Additional measures, like restrictions on animal products from affected countries, have been implemented to prevent further outbreaks. The Government plans to work closely with industry and enforcement agencies to maintain biosecurity.