Research published on the breeding structure of the british sheep industry 2003

The most comprehensive report on the flock structure and breeding practices on British sheep farms and trends in sheep farming has been published today.

Similar reports were published in 1971, 1987 and 1996 – the 2003 report had the largest response since 1971.

Summary of trends identified in the report:

• The unique stratified crossbreeding structure of British sheep flocks has evolved but still forms the backbone of the industry
• The average flock size has continued to increase at a steady rate over the last 30 years
• The number of farms with breeding sheep has declined by 30% since the last survey (1996)
• There has been a decline in ewe and flock numbers over the last 5 years
• The rise of the crossbred ewe from 32% in 1971 to 50% in 2003.
• The types of breeds have changed to suit market requirements and economic production systems.
• Imported breeds from continental Europe particularly the Texel and Charollais are now prominent in the industry

Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Debby Reynolds said:

"Defra commissioned this report to help in a review of the National Scrapie Plan and take a snapshot of the industry in 2003. The trends detailed in this research suggest the industry is consolidating with fewer, yet larger, flocks."

Notes to editors

1. www.defra.gov.uk/animalh/bse/othertses/scrapie/nsp/publicatsrpts/pollott2003.pdf (1.1 MB)

2. Defra commissioned Dr Geoff Pollott of Imperial College, London to undertake this survey (he was also responsible for the 1996 report).

3. 33,548 survey forms were dispatched. 11,408 were returned and analysed.

4. The Veterinary Laboratories Agency edited the report.

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