A fourth Scottish farm has fallen victim to foot-and-mouth disease as British authorities detect the first outbreak in Cornwall today.
A spokesman for the Scottish Executive confirmed the latest outbreak has been detected at a farm in Canonbie, Dumfries and Galloway. The farm, which has not been named, is the second in the town to test positive.
The four cases confirmed are in the south west of Scotland and preparations are underway for the incineration of more than 800 animals at the first two Scottish farms to be affected, Netherplace in Lockerbie and Parkhouse farm in Canonbie.
Meanwhile, four further possible cases were being investigated at farms in Galston in Ayrshire, Bo'ness and Polmont in central Scotland and Gretna in the Scottish Borders.
The Scottish Executive today introduced a licensing scheme which will allow animals outside the 10-mile restriction radius at affected foot-and-mouth farms to be sent for slaughter. The scheme mirrors the measures taken in England and Wales.
Strictly controlled licensing orders governing the movement of livestock came into effect at midnight.
In England, a fresh case of foot and mouth disease was also confirmed today in Cornwall, the county's first outbreak of the disease.
A spokesman for British Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAFF) in Truro said the case was at Botathan, South Petherwin, just south of Launceston.
It is understood the disease was found in cattle at an abattoir which was already under restriction for its connection with other outbreaks.
The announcement, taking the total of cases nationwide to 42, comes as farmers and abattoir owners in disease-free areas were being given the opportunity to apply for special licences allowing the transportation of live animals.
British Agriculture Minister, Mr Nick Brown which will allow farmers and abattoir owners in disease-free areas will be allowed to apply for special licences to transport live animals.
PA
