WEST Devon and Torridge MP John Burnett is calling on the Government to make livestock shows exempt from a foot and mouth animal movement restriction which he says will 'stymie and destroy' them.

The 21-day movement standstill, which would mean animals having to stay in one place for three weeks once they had been moved, is posing a headache for show organisers who are facing decisions on whether to have livestock classes next year.

Mr Burnett said it was a particular concern for the members of the Okehampton Show Committee as their event was cancelled last year because of foot and mouth: 'They are very worried because if this rule continues it will be the death knell of the show,' he said.

'I have asked DEFRA minister Alun Michael if he will ensure that livestock shows are exempt from this movement standstill.'

Chairman of the Okehampton Show Committee, Bill Voaden, said there would be a meeting in the New Year to discuss the 2002 show but he hoped by then DEFRA would have an update on the situation regarding the 21-day movement restriction.

'We have written to DEFRA but we cannot get any information out of them — I do not think they know themselves what is happening,' he said.

'Once more we are bound by DEFRA but in the meantime exhibitors are desperate to get out and show and sell their stock again. They are literally begging us to go-ahead.'

A spokesperson for DEFRA said the 21-day rule was part of the autumn licensing restrictions and these could be subject to change in the spring.

'At the moment it is purely speculative to suggest the same rules will be in place next year,' she said.

'I have been informed by DEFRA in London that there will be an announcement very shortly.'

l Organisers of the Devon County Show are hoping to be allowed to put on a traditional show next year.

But whether or not the show — on May 16, 17 and 18 — will be able to include cattle, pigs, sheep and goats lies in the hands of DEFRA.

Sir John Cave, chairman of the Council of the Devon County Agricultural Association, is writing to DEFRA to try and clarify the position.

The latest advice from the Ministry is that there will be no decision until early next year.

Sheep and goats are unlikely to be allowed, cattle and pigs may be allowed from 'mid spring' and hygiene and movement rules will apply.