HC Deb 03 March 1924 vol 170 cc984-5
84. Sir H. CAUTLEY

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is aware that the original outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease in Nottinghamshire, occurred on a farm at Farnsfield about a fortnight ago; that the farm is occupied by a cattle dealer; that the cattle attacked were Irish cattle which he had recently brought direct from Bristol docks after importation: and that this dealer was, on 23rd February, fined for moving to another farm in his occupation seven imported Irish heifers from Bristol docks without a licence, contrary to the Foot-and-Mouth Disease Order; and whether, in the view of his Department, the cattle found with the disease at Farnsfield were infected in Ireland or, if not, has the origin of the infection been traced?

Mr. BUXTON

I am satisfied that the recent outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease in Nottinghamshire originated at Nottingham railway station, to which infection had been conveyed from a source at present unknown. The answer to the second and third parts of the question is in the affirmative. With regard to the fourth part of the question, these prosecutions are conducted by the local authority. The case in question has not yet been reported to me, but I am having inquiry made into the matter. There is no suspicion that infection was conveyed to this country from Ireland.

Sir H. CAUTLEY

Were not the cattle found infected at Nottingham Irish cattle that had recently come from Ireland through Bristol?

Mr. BUXTON

Yes, but there is very strong evidence, on the other hand, that the infection did not originate in Ireland.

Mr. LAMB

In view of the reply given, will the right hon. Gentleman see that the disinfection of railway trucks is more vigorously carried out?

Mr. BUXTON

Yes.

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