HL Deb 14 January 2002 vol 630 cc136-7WA
Lord Hogg of Cumbernauld

asked Her Majesty's Government:

When the Government will consult on the exercise of slaughter powers and other provisions of the Animal Health Bill. [HL2283]

Lord Whitty

The Government announced on Friday 11 January a paper for public consultation. This proposes criteria that will govern the use in England and Wales of the new slaughter powers contained in the Animal Health Bill, together with arrangements for operating the adjusted compensation scheme for infected premises.

This document has been sent to around 200 organisations, although any interested parties are welcome to access it on Defra's website http:// www.defra.gov.uk/corporate/consult/current.htm and respond. Copies have also been placed in the Libraries of both Houses.