Can't understand the logic of only banning beef. The outbreak in the UK started on a pig farm. The largest effect so far has been on sheep. Subsituting pork and lamb makes no sense.

In fact, none of this makes any sense. Humans cannot catch Foot and Mouth (or Hoof and Mouth as it is known in the US). The disease is endemic in Asia and Africa and airlines still use animal prodcuts from these areas.

Unfortunately at this time of the year good news is in short supply. The politicians are on holiday with their wife and children (the mistresses are "off-duty" for Easter!) Foot and Mouth gives bored journalists something to get excited about. The majority of the coverage is over the top. In the UK less than 1.5% of livestock are effected but it's getting 90% of the news space!