In the event of a no-deal Brexit, the National Sheep Association (NSA) in the UK has recommended an immediate halt to all imports of lamb into the UK. The organisation says the UK must close its import doors for sheepmeat until export trade has viably resumed.

At present, the UK exports approximately 35% of its total sheepmeat production, with 96% going to EU destinations. The NSA fears that if the UK leaves without a deal, exports to EU markets will collapse and domestic markets will become oversupplied.

It is acknowledged that the full closure of the UK market would be challenged, but the NSA believes it would be justifiable while a review of standards worldwide was carried out. This, it said, would ensure the UK’s “own exacting environmental and welfare standards were being met”.

Storage

In the UK, the NSA recommends the government invest in storage and freezer capacity to ensure that in the event sheepmeat could not be exported, it could be stored properly. It also asked that British sheepmeat be procured through public funding for the armed forces, school dinners or hospital meals.

Over time, the NSA envisages the industry could adapt to ease seasonal production. The document said this could be achieved through clear messages to farmers to adapt extended lambing periods or later finishing of old-season lamb.

Securing funding for the industry is also high on the NSA’s priority list and a swift passing of the new Agriculutral Bill is called for to achieve this. Under the bill, devolved nations such as Scotland and Northern Ireland would have freedom to decide farm supports and legislation.

The NSA said: “Trade disparities between the four UK nations should be avoided at all costs.”

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