FARMERS are being reminded that a new movement restriction on cattle born or reared in the UK before August 1, 1996, has come into force in Powys.

The council has issued a warning and Defra has written to 18,000 county keepers to inform them of the measures.

It comes as an extra precaution against meat from older animals entering the food chain following a Government investigation into whether any illegal trade in such cattle has occurred.

Board member for public protection, Councillor Graham Brown, said controls were already strong, however, as specified risk material like brain and spinal chords were removed from all beasts after slaughter.

"In addition, any cattle aged over 48 months are tested for BSE after slaughter and only those that test negative are allowed into the food chain,” he said.

Trading standards manager Ken Yorston said the move followed illegal activity from a few owners but that the industry had otherwise worked hard to ensure British beef retained a good reputation.

"This reputation has to be maintained so it is a sensible move to introduce this extra safeguard,” he said.

“It shouldn't have much impact on most cattle keepers but it will give additional confidence that these animals don't enter the food chain.”

Therefore affected cattle cannot move from holdings without an individual movement licence, and no licences will be granted to move them to markets or through dealers.

For more information, call 01874 623420, email trading.standards@ powys.gov.uk or visit powys.gov.uk/ tradingstandards.