The I.O.S.A. committee has given very careful consideration to the current catastrophic situation with regard to the economic and social impact of the foot and mouth epidemic upon agriculture and the tourist and related trades. The committee has also taken heed of the often conflicting advice of the organisations and bodies most closely involved in the control of the disease and those most affected by the disease. The committee has also taken into account the current advertisements by SNH, STB and ministerial statements in the House of Commons, which are encouraging the public to visit the countryside.

The committee has seriously considered imposing a moratorium on I.O.S.A. activity (other than by resident island stations), and while of the opinion that this would present the safest option with regard to protection of livestock, does not at this time, believe that such a step is required. Provided that any island activation is undertaken with the utmost sensitivity to the views, wishes and advice of any and all landowners, farmers or other persons with legitimate interests in the land in the vicinity of operation, or in the area of any route taken to a place of operation. These views, along with the knowledge that the I.O.S.A. committee does not have the authority to direct any potential island activator where or when he or she may wish to travel, makes the administration of a moratorium impracticable.

In recognition of the continual support given to I.O.S.A. by all landowners, farmers and others with legitimate interests in the islands listed in the I.O.S.A. directory, the I.O.S.A. committee lay down the following rules, which they expect to be observed by every I.O.S.A. directory holder.

• * Before leaving on a pre-arranged expedition, verify that operation is still acceptable.
• * If going on an ad-hoc expedition seek local views before setting up a station.
• * Do not operate in any area where there are vulnerable animals unless you have obtained express permission to do so.
• * Respect local advice, opinion and instructions at all times.
• * Any potential island activator who lives in, or in close proximity to, any high risk area or an area where F& M has already been disclosed should abandon any plans to activate any of the islands in the directory, until this epidemic has been declared over.
• * Any potential island activator who has to travel through, or in close proximity to, any high risk area or an area where F& M has already been disclosed should also abandon any plans to activate any of the islands in the directory until this epidemic is declared over

Any situation that results in conflict between an activator and landowner or other person with a legitimate interest in controlling access to land, or any action by an IOSA participation that results in a complaint may affect the long-term interests of the IOSA programme. Any activator or IOSA participant so involved could be removed from the programme under Rules C.3 and C.3.2.

The committee regrets that these measures have had to be taken, but is sure that because of the implications that could arise through further spreading of this disease that this decision will have the full support of every I.O.S.A. directory holder.

Amateur radio is a hobby for a few. Foot and Mouth disease represents a potential economic and social disaster to large sections of the Scottish community.

This advice will be subject to review according to the developing situation.

Further advice and information is available at

• www.maff.gov.uk (gives all affected areas by county and every farm updated daily)
• www.visitscotland.com (Scottish Tourist Board) gives restrictions on various areas
• www.snh.org.uk (Scottish Natural Heritage)