DEFRA's Phytophthora update falls short

摘要

Last week, industry and government met to discuss Phytophthora ramorum. They also considered the new pathogen likely to be officially named Phytophthora kernevii (HIV, 2 December). DEFRA updated the industry on what has been done in 2004 to tackle thedisease, then listened to industry views on the outbreak. The meeting did not allay industry concerns. Rather, it gave growers the chance to show their unease surrounding regulations and their disenchantment with DEFRA's one-off industry-matched compensation payment, or hardship fund, of ￡200,000. Commercial growers of host species in particular feel more should be done on the issue.