§ 32. Mr. T. WILLIAMSasked the Minister of Agriculture what action has been taken by his Department and the Ministry of Health to implement the recommendations of the committee on cattle diseases; how many county authorities have appointed veterinary inspectors; and in what other direction efforts towards improvement have taken place?
§ The MINISTER of AGRICULTURE (Mr. Elliot)The report raises many issues involving large administrative questions, several of which are still being worked upon by the departments concerned. Two particular measures of importance affecting the matters concerned, of which I hope the facts will be far-reaching, have recently been or will shortly be brought into action, namely, the scheme of the Milk Marketing Board for a roll of accredited producers which comes into operation on the 1st May and the Government's attested herds schemes which came into operation on the 1st February. In England and Wales county authorities have appointed 70 whole-time veterinary inspectors, and in addition 538 part-time. The majority of these were appointed for duties under the Diseases of Animals Acts; but they are available also for other duties if required. 21 out of the 70 whole-time veterinary inspectors have been appointed since the 1st April last.
§ Mr. WILLIAMSCan the right hon. Gentleman tell us how many county authorities have not veterinary officers and in how many counties no inspections are taking place?
§ Mr. ELLIOTIf the hon. Gentleman will put down a question, I will try to give him the information.