Move to include Scotland in Protection Zone a "welcome relief"

9.45.02am GMT Thu 16th Oct 2008

In a move long called for by Shadow Secretary of State for DEFRA Tim Farron, Scotland is to be finally included in the Blue Tongue Protection Zone.

From November, normal trade between farmers on both sides of the market should be able to resume.

Mr Farron had consistently warned the Scottish Government and Alex Salmond of the impact to trade by excluding Scotland from the protection zone.

Commenting Mr Farron said:

"This decision is a welcome relief-particularly for farmers in Cumbria who have suffered greatly as a result of these restrictions.

"It beggars belief that during such hard economic times we should be restricting trading opportunities-especially for those on marginal incomes in the uplands.

"I am hopeful that following this announcement trade between Scotland and the North West will be fully restored."