Guidance

Links between cattle holdings (CTS links)

The way livestock holdings are defined in England is changing.

This guidance was withdrawn on

This guidance was withdrawn on 13 April 2018.

Links between cattle holdings (CTS links) are no longer used.

Please refer to the ‘Report and record cattle movements’ page.

Applies to England and Scotland

From July 2016, there will be changes to the way holdings are defined in England. The changes will take place over a one year period and will include the withdrawal of CTS links. From 25 July 2016 no new CTS links will be created. BCMS will contact you when your link is being withdrawn.

Linked holdings Scotland

All CTS links will cease to operate in Scotland when the ScotMoves system becomes operational on 1 January 2017. Further information on Livestock identification and traceability can be found on the The Scottish Government website.

The rules on linked holdings

  • You don’t have to report movements of cattle between linked holdings to BCMS, but you must still record them in your holding register
  • If you move hire bulls for serving purposes you must always report these movements (These movements do not fit under the linked holding rules)
  • You must report any other movements to BCMS and record them in your holding register in the usual way

Important information

Remember if you have a link between holdings and there is an animal disease outbreak on one of the holdings, all holdings linked to it will be placed under movement restrictions.

You must meet all the other conditions of the general licence for the movement of cattle under the disease control order in England including the livestock movement standstill requirements.

You must make sure the cattle undergo pre-movement TB tests if they are eligible for testing.

You must record details of the links between your holding and other holdings in your holding register.

Contact BCMS

British Cattle Movement Service

Curwen Road
Derwent Howe
Workington
Cumbria
CA14 2DD

Email bcmsenquiries@rpa.gov.uk

BCMS helpline 0345 050 1234

Helpline for cattle keepers in Wales 0345 050 3456

Normal BCMS helpline opening hours: Monday to Friday 8:30am to 5pm, closed weekends and bank holidays. All calls charged at local rate.

You can also speak to an advisor on webchat. Webchat is only available in the English language at the following URL: https://british-cattle-movement-guidance.service.gov.uk

Published 6 May 2014