MP Teresa Gorman has pledged to fight an EU directive which threatens to put a south Essex chicken factory out of business.

The Billericay MP visited Crescent Farm Fresh Poultry in Fulmar Way, Wickford, after being told of the directive which forces the firm to employ a vet at high costs to ensure it conforms to EC meat hygiene standards.

Owners of Crescent Farm, Keith and David Killick, claim a vet is not needed to ensure they adhere to the strict regulations, and likened it to "sending a brain surgeon to remove a splinter."

They claim the situation will get worse by 2002 when a new directive insists a vet must be on full time duty at the plant, even though it does not deal with live animals.

Mrs Gorman vowed to take the matter up with the appropriate Government ministry until common sense prevailed.

She said: "This small business is suffering and it is absolutely disgraceful. They have no objection to regular inspections but this situation is ridiculous. The place is cleaner than an operating theatre but they risk being driven out of business."

Picture, top: Bird-brained directive? - Teresa Gorman thinks strict hygiene laws are barmy.

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