Jersey ban on bull semen scrapped

The importation of bull semen is expected to begin in about a month

A long-standing ban on the importation of bull semen into Jersey has been overturned.

The States voted 34 votes to 15 in favour of lifting the import ban to bring to an end the 200-year closure of the Jersey herd.

It is after a scrutiny panel looking at the issue suggested the ban should be lifted, so milk yields can increase.

Milk Marketing Board chairman, Andrew Le Gallais, believes lifting the ban may have saved the dairy industry.

Some farmers on the island want to boost milk production by changing the genetics of the herd through the importation of bull semen.

However other farmers are concerned the decision could threaten the island herd's unique status.

The Royal Jersey Agricultural and Horticultural Society has backed the bid to import bull semen as it believes it could improve milk yields.

The importation of bull semen is expected to begin in about a month.