CONTROVERSIAL Government proposals for cost sharing in the animal health sector will come under scrutiny on the eve of Beef Expo 2010.

The main speaker will be Rosemary Radcliffe, independent chairwoman of the animal health responsibility and cost-sharing programme advisory group.

Organised by the National Beef Association, it takes place in the Wentworth Leisure Centre, Hexham, Northumberland, on Wednesday, May 26, between 4pm and 6pm.

It is a prelude to Beef Expo 2010, which takes place the following day at Hexham Auction Mart.

Ms Radcliffe, who will also address an Expo seminar, was the former chief economist in Europe for Pricewaterhouse- Coopers.

She carried out the 2005 review of the agricultural levy boards which recommended their merger into today’s Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board.

Scott Donaldson, chairman of the Beef Expo 2010 organising committee, said the costsharing proposals were giving farmers a great deal of concern.

He said: “Ms Radcliffe’s comments will be of particular interest in the light of the outcome of the General Election.”

The advisory group’s recommendations will be submitted to Ministers in November.

The conference will be followed by the pre-event dinner attended by 400 beef farmers and industry professionals from throughout the UK.

Tickets for the conference cost £5.88 and £36 for the conference and dinner. Call Euan Emslie on 01430-441870, or email euan@appliedremedies.co.uk for details.