Tagging high on priorities

Apr 9 2008 The Journal

MALCOLM CORBETT has been re-elected to the NFU’s national livestock board.

Northumberland farmer Mr Corbett will serve another two years as vice-chairman of the board.

The 56-year-old, who has a 500-acre farm in the Cheviot Hills, said he would continue fighting against controversial measures such as electronic identity tags on sheep.

Mr Corbett said: “Sheep tagging is a big issue for us and one which we will continue to argue is completely unnecessary.

“We face a costly and needless measure being forced on the sheep industry and we will be fighting it all the way.

“It can be frustrating at times, especially when you are up against a mountain of bureaucracy that largely is just not needed.

“But we know what issues are ahead of us, and we will continue to speak out and make sure we are heard on problems such as the rising cost of fuel, feed and fertiliser.

“These will continue to rise and the board will be pushing for recognition of the growing pressures and seeking more money for farmers.”