Scottish Government

RISK OF CATTLE PASSPORT REFUSALS - DON'T BE CAUGHT OUT BY APPLYING LATE!

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Dear Keeper

RISK OF CATTLE PASSPORT REFUSALS - DON'T BE CAUGHT OUT BY APPLYING LATE!

This letter is being sent to you jointly on behalf of the Scottish Executive and NFU Scotland due to the significance that we both place on this issue.

This is to remind you of the importance of applying for cattle passports on time, particularly given that the spring calving period is underway. The British Cattle Movement Service (BCMS) wrote to you last year advising that from 31 October 2003 they will not automatically issue passports for applications received after the legal deadline (27 days from birth) has passed. Applications for cattle passports received after this deadline will be refused, although the cattle will continue to be registered on the Cattle Tracing System (CTS) and receive a Notice of Registration (NOR). Without a passport an animal cannot enter the food chain. The NOR will also make it clear that the animal may not move off the holding alive, except under licence.

The quickest and simplest way to apply for a passport is by using the Online internet service. By using CTS Online you cut down on the paper burden, while the built in validation means that there will be less likelihood of making errors such as entering a tag number that does not exist on your farm. NFU Scotland strongly advocates the use of CTS Online and has also advised their members that, where this is not possible, they should consider mailing applications by registered post. BCMS will only accept late applications if supported by proof of postage.

Non-compliance with the legislation not only means that your cattle cannot enter the food chain but has implications for the approval of our Cattle Tracing System by the EU and for the credibility of our beef industry as a whole, particularly in relation to beef exports. That is why we strongly advise you to apply for cattle passports at the earliest opportunity and not to leave it until the deadline is about to expire.

Appeals against refusals to issue passports will continue to be heard by BCMS, but keepers will have to prove that there was an unforeseen circumstance which prevented the application being made in good time. Latest figures show that Scottish applications are still being received late by BCMS - that means cattle which cannot enter the food chain. Please take note of this message and don't let your cattle become potentially worthless!

Yours Sincerely

Linda Rosborough
CAPM (Head of Division)

David Mitchell
Vice President (NFU Scotland)