Originally from: Farmtalking
                        
UK – The NPA has welcomed formal confirmation from DEFRA that all the tests for Aujeszky's Disease on six suspect pigs were negative.

National
Pig
Association

NPA Chief Executive Stuart Royston said: "This is the outcome we expected but it has taken 18 days to reach this conclusion.

"During that time producers have been under restrictions and the UK 's disease free status and our important reputation among overseas customers has been at risk."

The NPA supports monitoring programmes to defend the UK herd against disease and swift action when suspicions arise but the testing arrangements and science have to be effective.

Mr Royston added: "It is important that we have adequate testing arrangements to ensure we get effective information and clearance swiftly."

Source: National Pig Association – 17th July 2002