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No Sense in Pork Imports

Richard Prosser MP

Spokesperson for Primary Industries
22 JANUARY 2016

No Sense in Pork Imports

Increasing pork imports from Europe makes no sense, says New Zealand First.

“It makes no economic sense for New Zealand’s pig farmers or the economy, it increases the risk of pig specific diseases decimating our industry and increases the risk of foot and mouth destroying our entire primary sector,” says Primary Industries Spokesperson Richard Prosser.

“The New Zealand government has updated the 1996 bilateral agreement with the European Union which will lead to the resumption of fresh pork imports into New Zealand.

“The government’s record on biosecurity incursion is appallingly bad – the Queensland fruit fly episode was only last year. This would never have happened with 100 per cent X-ray at the border.

“New Zealand’s animal welfare standards are better than the rest of the world, yet by encouraging more pork imports the government is creating a demand that encourages poor animal welfare standards worldwide.

“New Zealand does not have mandatory country of origin labelling for fresh meat so Kiwi buyers are unable support New Zealand farms and better animal welfare.

“Higher imports is putting unnecessary pressure on the primary industry sector which contributes two-thirds of the country’s GDP.

“Importing fresh pork is risky on all levels and the government should put a stop to it now,” says Mr Prosser.

ENDS


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