HC Deb 02 March 1936 vol 309 cc985-6
22. Brigadier - General CLIFTON BROWN

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether in view of the fact that the virus of foot-and-mouth disease survives in chilled meat and that this disease is distributed by the use of bones imported in chilled meat, the Government. are taking any action to prevent the importation of meat which may carry the virus from any country in which this disease prevails?

Mr. ELLIOT

So far as I am aware, there is no evidence to support my hon. and gallant Friend's statement that foot-and-mouth disease is distributed by the use of bones imported in chilled meat, but I recognise that there is some such risk. Regulations governing the exportation of carcases to this country have been in force in the South American meat exporting countries since 1928 and assurances were given as recently as last year by the Governments concerned that these regulations are being properly enforced. In addition, Orders are in force in this country directed to preventing the spread of disease through pig food and meat wrappers, and other similar material.

Mr. BOOTHBY

Do these Regulations and Orders apply to Scotland as well as England?

Mr. ELLIOT

Yes. Sir.

Brigadier-General BROWN

Although the right hon. Gentleman says that it is not the case that foot-and-mouth disease is spread in the manner suggested, is research into the question going on at the present time?

Mr. ELLIOT

Yes, there is a good deal of research carried on by the Foot-and-Mouth Disease Committee.

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