production and health and an analysis of their importance i
ANIMQL PRODUCTION AND HEALTH PAPER   VOL. 23

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 Disease control in semen and embryos
International exchange of genetic material has for a long time been one of the means by which the productivity of livestock industries could be increased. In addition to the traditional movement of live animals for this purpose, the technique for artificial insemination has facilitated the movement of male gametes while recently the possibility of transferring embryos has provided a further means by which the transfer of genetic material across national borders could be effected.

However, all the above means of exchanging genetic material run the risk of simultaneously transferring disease causing micro-organisms,  In order to provide its Member Governments with guidelines on how best to overcome such risks without unduly hampering the desirable movement of genetic material, FAO has, from time to time,, called upon the advice of experts in this field. Following this policy and in the light of recent developments in this field, the Director-General of FAO called upon the advice of a group of experts at a Consultation held in Rome from 23 to 27 February 1981. This report contains the recommendations agreed to by the Experts.