§ 24. Mr. SAVERYasked the Minister of Health how many whole-time veterinary surgeons have been appointed by county and county borough councils during the last 12 months; and whether he is willing to recommend that such councils should, as far as possible, utilise the services of veterinary surgeons who are practising in their districts?
§ Sir K. WOODI regret that I am unable to give the information asked for in the first part of the question. As regards the second part, my hon. Friend is no doubt aware that the Cattle Diseases Committee of the Economic Advisory Council recommended that local authorities should appoint whole-time veterinary officers wherever this is practicable, and I do not think therefore I should be justified in taking the course suggested.