Russia has imposed a ban on the import of live Dutch sheep and goats, as well as their meat, embryos and sperm. The move was prompted by the discovery of the Schmallenberg virus among Dutch livestock.

Deputy Agriculture Minister Henk Bleker says the measure is unnecessary and intends to persuade his Russian colleague Elena Skrynnik to revoke the ban when they meet in Berlin later this week.

Mr Bleker says there is no danger to public health.

(gsh/hs)

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