Defra have confirmed to Nabma that the new directive for the control of avian influenza was adopted on 20th December last year following negotiations in Council Working Group during the UK Presidency. The text can seen at http://www.defra.gov.uk/animalh/diseases/notifiable/disease/ai/pdf/ai-directive-oj.pdf. Alternatively, a copy can be obtained from Navjit Mudhar, Area 609, Defra, 1A Page Street, London, SW1P 4PQ. Tel - 020 7904 6476
email – navjit.mudhar@defra.gsi.gov.uk Fax – 020 7904 8246

Defra are seeking comments on their plans for implementing the Directive in domestic legislation by 28th April 2006.

Further information about avian influenza is available at www.defra.gov.uk/animalh/diseases/notifiable/disease/ai/index.htm