HC Deb 09 September 1914 vol 66 cc551-2
2. Mr. CHARLES BATHURST

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Agriculture whether foot-and-mouth disease is spreading in England; and whether any steps are being taken, by disinfection of clothing or otherwise, to prevent, the disease being disseminated by German prisoners?

5. Mr. PATRICK WHITE

asked if there are any outbreaks of foot-and-mouth disease in England since the outbreak at Grimsby; and, if so, the number of animals infected, slaughtered, and in contact?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD Of AGRICULTURE (Sir Harry Verney)

Since the original outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease at Stallingborough on 2Sth August, ten further outbreaks have been confirmed, all within the district originally scheduled. One hundred and five cows. 118 other cattle, 196 sheep, 178 swine, and four goats have been or are being slaughtered as affected or as having been exposed to infection. With regard to the second part of the question of the hon. Member for Wilton, the Board have consulted with the medical authorities at the War Office, and are satisfied that the arrangements made for the detention of German prisoners will be such as to preclude any possibility of their contact with farm stock. Apparatus for disinfecting clothing will, however, be available if required.

Mr. BATHURST

When did the last outbreak of the disease occur?

Sir H. VERNEY

On Sunday.

1. Mr. PATRICK WHITE

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Agriculture whether he will appoint the Committee promised by the ex-President of the Department to report on future arrangements between England and Ireland when foot-and-mouth disease breaks out; and, if so, whether he will, as requested, confer with the Irish representatives as to terms of reference, etc.?

Sir H. VERNEY

I would refer the hon. Member to the answer which I gave to him on the 31st ult., to which at present I have nething to add.

G. Mr. FLAVIN

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Agriculture whether he is now in a position to make a definite statement removing the restrictions on Irish stock imported into Great Britain?

Sir H. VERNEY

The Board issued an Order on the 7th inst., which has already come into operation, restoring the normal conditions with regard to the landing of animals from Ireland in Great Britain.