Russia banned the import of British beef and lamb following concerns about the cattle disease BSE. The controls are now so tight that the disease has virtually disappeared in the UK, and this is now recognised internationally.
Environment secretary, Owen Paterson, said: “British food is recognised around the world for using quality ingredients, for rigorous production standards, and for reliable traceability. This deal is further evidence of international confidence in what British producers have to offer.
“Our food exports are booming, recently topping £18bn a year, and this Government is doing all it can to open up markets abroad.”
The agreement with Russia is another export success following the £50m agreement to export British pork to China which Defra helped to secure in May this year.
The UK government expects official written confirmation, and full details of the deal, from Russian officials within the next few days. The British negotiation delegation was headed by the Defra’s chief veterinary officer Nigel Gibbens.
Food and farming is worth £89bn to the UK economy and employs 3.5 million people. Last year UK food and drink exports increased by 9% to £18.2bn, marking the seventh consecutive year of record growth.
Source: Defra
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