CONSUMERS will not suffer along with the meat producers if the current foot and mouth crisis continues, local supermarkets pledged yesterday (February 28).

Chris Dee, marketing manager from Booths Supermarkets, who strive to sell only British meat, said: "The current situation is of course concern to us as we only sell British in principle and some of it is Cumbrian fell-bred which is very local.

" We may have to turn to Europe or even New Zealand for our lamb if things get worse but only when every other British supply has been exhausted.

"As for buying levels we have seen some panic with pork almost gone and lamb and beef possibly running out next week, especially the popular cuts such as chops etc. And some are choosing simply not to buy at all. But we are very happy with the quality of our meat and would certainly welcome the proposed licensing scheme for healthy animals."

Sainsbury's has confirmed it does have contingency plans to import meat from abroad if its current supplies run out as does Tesco with its sights set on Ireland if the crisis continues.