Chinese import restrictions have prevented Britain exporting pigs and pig products to the country since 2000. Following Defra's completion of detailed technical questionnaires about the UK's animal health status, the Chinese authorities have recognised the UK's freedom from classical swine fever in July 2005. This will alow the export of live breeding pigs to China after a gap of five years.

David said:

'I welcome this important development for Suffolk pig farmers. However, a decision is still pending on whether China will allow Britain to import pork and pig meat products. This is vital for the British Pig industry and I have now written to the Prime Minister to urge him to do all he can when the Chinese decision making authority visit the UK in December.

'As the Member of Parliament for Bury St Edmunds, which has one of the largest number of pig farmers in the country, I know how important this could be for the local farming community.'