STORY
The Avian Influenza Prevention Zones in place across Great Britain have been lifted from noon on 4 June. The Chief Veterinary Officer announced the change after the risk level reduced.
The zones had imposed additional biosecurity requirements to limit the spread of bird flu. DEFRA said the lifting of the measures reflected the latest assessment of risk, although poultry keepers and bird owners are still expected to maintain good standards of biosecurity.
The decision will be watched closely by rural communities and the poultry sector after repeated outbreaks placed
pressure on farmers, regulators and animal health services. The Government said vigilance remained important despite the easing of restrictions.