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Foot & Mouth – The Economic Effects

Agriculture accounts for 2% of GDP while the livestock sector is probably 1% or less. Accordingly, a 10% reduction in livestock output would reduce GDP by 0.1% for as long as it lasts. This accords with estimates from the National Farmers Union, which put the direct losses at £300m per quarter, or between 0.1% to 0.2% of quarterly GDP. This would be offset to some extent by increased activity and output in substitute areas such as poultry and fish.

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