The National Beef Association (NBA), working closely with the pedigree sector, has revised its Terms and Conditions of Sale to make them more robust and workable for both purchasers and vendors of pedigree cattle, within the practicalities of the insurance and legal industry.

The NBA Rules as they have been termed for many years, were adopted by Breed Societies for use at their Society Sales, and have formed a base for any unfortunate disputes arising after sale. Formerly a charge was made through the Auctioneer to cover the NBA cost, to both purchaser and vendor.

However, as of the 1st of January, the NBA is very pleased to make the new revised Terms available free of charge to its Breed Society members, for use at their Society Sales.

Chairman of the NBA Pedigree Committee, and Board Director Caroline Poultney said: “We have taken the original Rules as the basis for this revised set of Terms and Conditions, and they have been approved by veterinary, insurance and legal professionals as a sound basis for settling any potential disputes between buyer and seller. However, as Breed Societies we would always advocate an amicable settling of any issues as soon as possible, without recourse to legal proceedings unless absolutely necessary.”

The NBA has 30 Breed Society Members and is there to represent at the highest level everyone with an interest in the British beef industry. Chris Mallon, Chief Executive of the NBA, gives some further background to these revisions: “One of the benefits of membership of the NBA is that we are there to listen to our members at all levels. These changes are a perfect example of us listening to not just our members but to our pedigree committee. It is always important to review legislative documents to ensure that they are appropriate and in line with the current needs of the industry.”

The revised Rules are available from the National Beef Association and from Society Auctioneers.