Source · Select Committees · Public Accounts Committee
Recommendation 22
22
Accepted
Current UK animal tracing systems are fragmented, old, and fragile
Recommendation
Livestock movements in England are significant. For example, there are around 20 million movements of sheep to or from different farms, livestock markets, collection centres, and to abattoirs each year. These movements increase the risk of spreading disease. Being able to trace animal movements quickly is therefore key in responding quickly and effectively to contain an outbreak.30 The Department set out that the current UK animal tracing is fragmented, with different systems for different species, and relies on very old and fragile systems.31
Government Response Summary
The government will introduce changes to cattle identification, registration and reporting from summer 2026, including mandatory Electronic Identification (EID) for all new-born calves from 2027 and a new cattle movement reporting system. Expansion to cover additional species is planned from 2027 onwards.
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
6.1 The government agrees with the Committee’s recommendation. Target implementation date: Summer 2027 6.2 The work to develop a multi-species livestock tracing system is making progress according to the revised timetable. 6.3 From summer 2026, the department will introduce changes to cattle identification, registration and reporting that will improve the government’s ability to respond effectively to disease. These changes will also simplify regulations and support industry to boost productivity, food security and international trade. 6.4 New requirements will see Electronic Identification (EID) mandatory for all new-born calves from 2027, using low frequency (LF) technology. This means animals with EID ear tags can be scanned when animals are moved, rather than a visual read and manual input of the tag number. Electronic cattle traceability will strengthen the UK’s ability to prevent, detect, and respond to animal disease outbreaks, protecting farmers and the rural economy. 6.5 This will be supported by a new cattle movement reporting system which will be easier to use for farmers, markets, abattoirs and regulators alike. 6.6 From 2027 onwards there will be expansion to cover additional species: sheep, goats, deer and pigs. 6.7 Animal ID and traceability policy is devolved. The Livestock Information Transformation Programme (LITP) is working closely with devolved governments to work towards an aligned approach to livestock traceability across the UK, so that systems and processes are compatible.