Farron welcomes end to import restrictions on British Beef and Lamb to Russia.

Cumbrian MP Tim Farron has welcomed news that Russia will lift its long term ban on imports of British beef and lamb.

The import restriction was introduced 16 years ago as a result of the BSE outbreak in the UK. Unlike the rest of the world Russia chose not to follow suit and end the ban in 2006, however last week's announcement will be an important boost for the livestock industry.

Following years of lobbying by EBLEX and the Department for Environment, Food and Rural affairs, the NFU have estimated that this change could be worth around £80 million to £115 million to the British livestock industry over the next 3 years. Beef exports will begin from a number of plans in the new year, while lamb exports are due to start in April.

Commenting Tim said: "This is fantastic news for the British livestock industry and will provide a much needed boost for agriculture during this difficult economic period. Russia is a potentially massive market for British beef and the end of this ban is a clear sign that British produce is in demand worldwide."