§ Lord BURTONasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether the progress made with brucellosis eradication is up to the originally planned scheme, whether an estimate can be given of when the whole of the United Kingdom is likely to be clear of brucellosis and, in particular, when the counties of Roxburgh and Selkirk are likely to become clearance areas.
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§ The MINISTER of STATE, SCOTTISH OFFICE (Lord Hughes)Progress in brucellosis eradication is dependent on a number of factors, including the response by the industry and the availability of resources to deal with the incidence of animal health problems generally. It has not therefore been considered practicable to lay down a timetable for its completion, nor is it now. But Northern Ireland is already clear of the disease for all practicable purposes and good progress is being made in Great Britain, particularly in Scotland and Wales.
Compulsory eradication will begin in the county of Selkirk on 1st July 1975 and in the county of Roxburgh on 1st November 1975. Provided there are no setbacks eradication should be completed about two years afterwards.
House adjourned at eleven minutes past eight o'clock.