A MAJOR survey is under way to assess levels of sow infertility on British pig units, a serious new threat to the industry.

On some units, sow fertility has dropped by as much as 40pc causing a huge rise in producer costs.

An informal survey has been carried out on the National Pig Association web site and the Agrosoft database is being used to assess any recent trends.

Derek Armstrong, Meat and Livestock Commission veterinary scientist, has devised a questionnaire which is being sent to producers all over the country with holdings of more than 1,000 sows, to gauge the extent and impact of the problem.

The information gathered will be used by Mr Armstrong and Pinder Gill, MLC pig technical manager, to design preliminary intervention trials to draw up practical advice for pig farmers.

Discussions have already been held between Defra's chief veterinary officer and the British Pig Executive (BPEX) with a view to getting research work under way as quickly as possible.

Mick Sloyan, BPEX chief executive, said BPEX was determined to seize the initiative to get as much help to pig farmers as quickly as possible.

"We have stressed how concerned we are in discussions with Defra, particularly the Chief Veterinary Officer who is sympathetic to the plight of the industry."

To take part in the survey should contact Mr Armstrong on 01908 844216.