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Farming Today: 06/05/21 - Deer culling in lockdown, gene editing in the EU and DIY farm machinery

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06/05/21 - Deer culling in lockdown, gene editing in the EU and DIY farm machinery

BBC Radio 4 - Farming Today, 06/05/21 - Deer culling in lockdown, gene editing in the EU and DIY farm machinery

What next for the UK deer population after culling was hit by lockdown?

It's estimated there are about 2 million deer in the UK - what impact will the lack of culling during lockdown have?

As lockdown eases venison producers are hoping for an upturn in their fortunes: the closure of pubs and restaurants hit them hard. We hear from one producer whose been sending meat to food charities. Meanwhile, the lack of a market for venison meant many stalkers have stopped culling deer. We find out what that might mean for the deer population this year.

A report from the European Commission has found EU rules on gene editing and genetic modification are ‘not fit for purpose'. It says that since the legislation was introduced in 2001 the technology has developed, leaving ‘regulatory uncertainty’. Commission is promising a consultation, and any change to the rules could impact trade with the UK.

And we hear from a farmer who took things into his own hands when the right bit of farm machinery wasn't available.

Presented by Charlotte Smith
Produced for BBC Audio in Bristol by Heather Simons

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