50. Wing-Commander Jamesasked the Minister of Agriculture if he is aware that in some areas divisional inspectors are demanding the double fencing of farm boundaries as a pre-requisite for herd attestation; and if he will make it clear there is no authority for this demand, and no need for it, where fences are strong and well maintained.
§ Mr. T. WilliamsThe rules of the Tuberculosis (Attested Herds) Scheme require that boundary fences shall be maintained in such a condition as to prevent the infection of an attested herd by cattle on adjoining land. I am not aware that additional fencing is being demanded by my Department's officers where existing fences fulfil this requirement.
Wing-Commander JamesWill the Parliamentary Secretary bring that reply to the notice of divisional officers in view of the fact that they are, in many cases now, demanding some increase automatically?
§ Mr. WilliamsThis Question and the reply will again bring the point to the notice of the officers referred to, but if my hon. and gallant Friend has any particular case in mind and will let us have particulars, we will gladly look into it.
§ Earl WintertonIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that many of us are put to quite unnecessary expense by the way that these regulations are carried out, and that it is most desirable for him to go into the matter very carefully and make it clear that, provided the fence keeps the cattle out and they cannot communicate through the usual channels, the fencing is perfectly all right?
§ Mr. WilliamsIf the Noble Lord or any hon. Member will bring any particular case to our notice, we will gladly look into it.
§ Mrs. TateDoes the right hon. Gentleman consider that there is really any point in having T.T. herds, when we indulge in the disgusting practice of pasteurising milk?