HC Deb 24 February 1914 vol 58 cc1583-4
39. Mr. CHARLES BATHURST

asked the President of the Board of Agriculture whether any fresh outbreaks of foot-and-mouth disease have occurred in the county of Durham or elsewhere in Great Britain; and what precautions are being taken against the spread of the disease?

Mr. HERBERT LEWIS

There are no further developments in connection with the Durham and Worcestershire outbreaks, but I regret to state that two fresh separate outbreaks have been confirmed in cowsheds within the city of Liverpool. In the first case nine out of thirteen animals on the premises were found to be affected, and in the second case two out of ten. All the animals on both premises have been slaughtered, and the usual restrictions were at once enforced, and inquiries are being made as to the possible sources of the outbreaks. Every precaution is being taken to prevent the possibility of further spread of the disease.

Mr. C. BATHURST

Did these two cases occur in the city of Liverpool or in Birkenhead, and are the usual restrictions imposed on the movement of live stock in the neighbourhood?

Mr. LEWIS

The two cases referred to. arose in the city of Liverpool and the usual restrictions were at once enforced.

Mr. WATSON

Is there reason to think any of these cases of disease are due to fodder imported from abroad, and, if so, will steps be taken to stop the importation?

Mr. LEWIS

I have no information on that point.

Mr. BATHURST

Do the restrictions imposed cover a fifteen-mile radius round the city?

Mr. LEWIS

I understand that to be the case.