As the number of cases of foot and mouth continues to increase, the Prince of Wales has said that he fears that farmers may be driven to suicide.

The government's chief vet, Jim Scudamore, said yesterday that he now believed the foot and mouth outbreak was now "under control" and some reports suggest the worst of the crisis is now over.

Abbattoirs have today been licensed to slaughter animals ruled safe by MAFF inspectors in a move which will bring back some element of normality.

With the number of cases of foot and mouth now at 73, the authorities yesterday enlisted the help of hunt staff to assist with its slaughter programme.

MAFF vets will soon determine whether or not to cull the animals roaming on Dartmoor.