The document summarizes the UK government's response to outbreaks of avian influenza and foot and mouth disease. It describes the timeline of events and reactions from various stakeholders. Key issues included a lack of internal communication within government agencies, reactive rather than strategic communication approaches, and failures to adequately address risks to human health. Lessons highlighted the need for coordinated response plans, transparent communication, and treating future crises with the seriousness of a "wartime" situation.