HC Deb 13 February 1941 vol 368 cc1521-2
50 and 51. Mr. Price

asked the Minister of Agriculture (1) whether, in view of the fact that recent veterinary reports indicate that Johne's disease is widespread among dairy cattle in this country, and especially in Sussex, Cornwall and Hereford, he will consider what steps can be taken to promote the testing of herds with Johnin of proved potency and to advise farmers about the best means of dealing with reactors;

(2) whether he has considered the report on the diseases of farm livestock, prepared by the National Veterinary Medical Association's survey committee; and whether, and when, he proposes to take some action along the lines proposed?

54. Mr. Salt

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether, in view of the widespread existence of Bhang's disease amongst dairy cattle in this country, he will arrange for regular testing of samples of blood from all cattle, and for preventive inoculation?

Mr. Hudson

I have considered the report on the diseases of farm livestock prepared by the National Veterinary Medical Association's survey committee, and would refer my hon. Friends to the reply given on 4th February to my hon. and gallant Friend the Member for Howdenshire (Colonel Carver), on the subject of the consultations taking place with a view to the adoption of the most suitable methods of controlling diseases of dairy stock, including Johne's disease and Bang's disease.

Mr. Price

Does the Minister realise that this is a matter of very great importance in reducing the loss of milk production in this country occasioned by these diseases, and can he indicate any of the difficulties in the way of accepting some of the recommendations of the committee?

Mr. Hudson

I could do so, but not within the confines of an answer to a Supplementary Question.