Emergency legislation for the authorisation of key cobalt salts to be used in livestock feed in England and Wales has been put forward after pressure from the Agricultural Industries Confederation (AIC).

Authorisation for the key feed additives was due to expire in July.

Defra Minister Mark Spencer MP, confirmed to AIC that Statutory Instruments (SIs) for the urgent authorisation for the four cobalt additives have now been laid in Parliament.

The signs of cobalt deficiency are similar to those of malnutrition and include emaciation, poor appetite, weeping 'rheumy' eyes, anaemia and decreased milk production. Young animals are most susceptible and lambs are more susceptible than calves.

Responding to AIC's call to join Scotland in granting an emergency authorisation, the Minister said: "I received the Food Standards Agency's (FSA) recommendation and indicated my support."

Statutory Instruments (SIs) providing the urgent (provisional) authorisation for the four cobalt additives were laid in Parliament on 22 June in England and Wales (SI No.689 and No.678 (Cy.100) respectively).

In May, AIC and The British Association of Feed Supplement and Additive Manufacturers (BAFSAM) worked together to write to the FSA and Defra, submitting evidence and data on the animal welfare and economic implications of losing the four cobalt feed additives. AIC also responded to an FSA consultation on its Members' behalf.

It comes after legislation approving the use of the the same cobalt salts was put to the Scottish Parliament earlier in June, following a co-ordinated effort by AIC and BAFSAM.

The SIs were harmonised to collectively come into force across Great Britain on 15 July, ensuring uninterrupted market supply of cobalt feed additives.

James McCulloch, AIC's Head of Animal Feed, said: "This is a great example of the industry and regulators working together to secure the right outcome for livestock farmers.

"This news will be especially welcome for sheep farmers across Great Britain wanting to supplement spring born lambs with cobalt to help ensure good growth rates over the summer months.

"AIC is grateful for the support from the FSA, FSS and Minister Spencer on this important matter."