Huge problem of dogs worrying farms’ livestock
Concerns over livestock worrying by dogs on farms in West Sussex have been highlighted by local farmers at a meeting with Arundel and South Downs MP Andrew Griffith.
At a roundtable meeting at Sullington Manor Farm in Storrington, the MP heard how dogs attacking and chasing livestock was causing ‘immense damage’ to farmers’ livelihoods.
NFU Mutual estimates that the cost of dog attacks on livestock reached £1.3 million in 2020. Farmers put the prospect of introducing mandatory DNA registration for dogs to the MP.
In-depth discussions were also held on access to global markets for agricultural exports with a focus on expanding sales of food produced in the UK.
The farmers also told how they welcomed the Sussex Police Rural Crime Team and education around food standards in the UK.
Andrew Griffith said: “As an MP for a rural constituency, I was very glad to meet with local farmers during this roundtable event to discuss the most pressing issues facing the West Sussex agricultural industry.
“I was enthusiastic to hear from farmers about the strengthening of British cattle prices and I took on board comments about access to markets and rural crime.
“I look forward to taking our discussions back to Westminster to champion the fantastic variety and quality of food produced by farms in West Sussex.”
Sullington Manor Farm owner Grahame Kittle said: “The last year has been especially challenging for many in the agricultural sector, and so it is reassuring that our local Member of Parliament is engaged on matters that affect local farmers.
“The conversations held during the meeting on the farm were constructive and I look forward to working closely with Andrew in the future.”