Article 4U.K.... Targets for the reduction of the prevalence of zoonoses and zoonotic agents
[1.The appropriate authority may, by regulations, set, modify or omit a target for the reduction of the prevalence of the zoonoses and zoonotic agents listed in Annex 1, column 1, in the animal populations listed in Annex 1, column 2.]
2.The targets referred to in paragraph 1 shall consist at least of:
(a)a numerical expression of:
(i)
the maximum percentage of epidemiological units remaining positive; and/or
(ii)
the minimum percentage of reduction in the number of epidemiological units remaining positive;
(b)the maximum time limit within which the target must be achieved;
(c)the definition of the epidemiological units referred to in (a);
(d)the definition of the testing schemes necessary to verify the achievement of the target; and
(e)the definition, where relevant, of serotypes with public health significance or of other subtypes of zoonoses or zoonotic agents listed in Annex I, column 1, having regard to the general criteria listed in paragraph 6(c) and any specific criteria laid down in Annex III.
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[4.Before making regulations under paragraph 1, the appropriate authority must—
(a)publish an analysis of the expected costs and benefits of any new target, taking into account the criteria laid down in paragraph 6(c);
(b)take into account data collected in accordance with Article 3(2)(b).
4A.The competent authority must, if requested to do so by the appropriate authority, assist in the preparation of the analysis referred to in paragraph 4(a).]
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(b)[The appropriate authority may, by regulations, amend Annex 1 to alter] the requirements regarding the establishment of ... targets by supplementing, restricting or modifying:
(i)
the zoonoses or zoonotic agents;
(ii)
the stages of the food chain; and/or
(iii)
the animal populations concerned.
(c)[Before making regulations under point (b), the appropriate authority must take into account], with respect to the zoonosis or zoonotic agent concerned:
(i)
its frequency in animal and human populations, feed and food;
(ii)
the gravity of its effects for humans;
(iii)
its economic consequences for animal and human health care and for feed and food businesses;
(iv)
epidemiological trends in animal and human populations, feed and food;
(vi)
technological developments, particularly relating to the practicality of the available control options; and
(vii)
requirements and trends concerning breeding systems and production methods.
[7.The appropriate authority may, by regulations, amend Annex 3.]
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