Breeding sheep sales have been allowed to resume this week following discussions between DEFRA and auctioneers’ representatives.
These sales are, along with primestock sales, operating on a ‘drop and go’ basis, with vendors not allowed within the market premises and only buyers who have registered with auctioneers in advance allowed in markets.
Chris Dodds, Livestock Auctioneers Association executive secretary said: “The heightened level of safety measures and security standards adopted by all LAA markets mean that, by following the same protocols, we have agreed that some breeding sales can commence from Monday 27th April.
“Additional conditions will be implemented and extended to the sale of breeding animals, to ensure continued safe trade within LAA marts. This is not a relaxation of controls, but an extension to the stringent conditions already implemented to allow for these sales.
“We will continue to work with Government officials to provide reassurance that market activity does not undermine the important public health priorities of stopping the spread of COVID-19,” he added.
Show and sales, or sales that would normally generate a large gathering of people, such as special pedigree sales, are not permitted under this review.
As with stores sales, markets will encourage buyers to work together, buying on behalf of others where possible to reduce attendance numbers.
