A TRADE union has called for all opponents of plans to close a world-class veterinary laboratory to work together after holding talks with the local MSP.

Prospect warned following talks with Highlands and Islands MSP David Stewart that closure of the Inverness facility, which carries out post-mortems on livestock, would increase the chances of spreading infections.

Union officials argue that Highlands farmers are forced to transport carcases over hundreds of miles to the next nearest specialist disease surveillance centres in Aberdeen, Perth or Thurso.

It has also highlighted the risk of farmers simply burying dead animals rather than undertake the arduous journey. Smaller farmers and crofters will be hardest hit, it says.

Alan Denney, Prospect national secretary said: "There is a growing outcry at these plans from both farmers - whose livelihoods depend on effective disease surveillance - and the wider public. The work of this lab is unique in the Highlands and Islands and as such it is irreplaceable

"But if we are going to stop these plans opponents must set aside any political differences and speak with one voice. The consequences of failure could have grave consequences for farmers, human health and the Scottish economy.

Inverness site owners, Scotland's Rural Collegehas justified the plans on the basis of the Kinnaird Review of Veterinary Surveillance.

It said feedback is still on-going and welcomed all suggestions and ideas about how it can provide a good service before a final decision is made in consultation with the Scottish Government.