It’s not just ID cards that Lib Dem MPs are battling - they’re also taking the fight to the EU to stop the introduction of a new system for the electronic tagging of sheep which farmers fear could cost thousands of pounds. The Voice’s favourite read FarmingUK.com has more:

The Westminster debate will give MPs the opportunity to quiz a DEFRA Minister on the plans. A delay in the implementation of the proposals has been secured but electronic identification will be introduced from January 2010.

Commenting, Mark Williams [Lib Dem MP for Credigion] said:

“These plans will be deeply damaging to farmers, and I hope this debate will be an opportunity to galvanise parliamentary support against the scheme. I am very pleased that there is a strong cross-party campaign in the European Parliament, but it is important that the Government uses its influence in Europe to press the concerns of the UK sheep industry. I look forward to hearing what the Minister has to say on this issue, and I hope as many colleagues as possible will attend to show the strength of feeling against these plans.”