Source · Select Committees · Public Accounts Committee
Recommendation 25
25
Acknowledged
Differing devolved administrations' decisions hinder full integration of UK animal tracing systems
Conclusion
Animal diseases do not respect national borders, but the Department confirmed that implementing animal tracing systems is a devolved matter. The Department explained that its livestock tracing programme director meets regularly with the devolved administrations. However, it also highlighted that different decisions are being made. For example, Scotland had made a different choice of ear tag which is an important element of cattle tracing systems, and transition timetables are not aligned across the devolved administrations. The Department could not confirm to us if its new system would be fully integrated across the devolved administrations.35 30 C&AG’s report, para 3.14 31 Qq 43-44 32 Q 43; C&AG’s report, para 3.15 33 C&AG’s report, para 3.16 34 Qq 43-45; 35 Qq 46-48 14 Illegal meat imports
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
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
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.