§ 1. Mr. G. Williamsasked the Minister of Agriculture what evidence he has as to the possibility that bone meal and flour imported into this country can carry infection; and what regulations have been made concerning importation.
§ The Minister of Agriculture (Major Sir Thomas Dugdale)Samples of imported bone meal and flour have been analysed in the past, and some have been 638 found to contain anthrax, but there is no evidence that these particular products have been responsible for the introduction of other diseases. Bone meal and flour are covered by the Importation of Carcases (Prohibition) Order, which regulate their importation from certain European countries, but their importation is allowed under licence.
§ Mr. WilliamsIs the Minister aware that there is some concern about the possibility of fowl pest being brought in by this means, and have his scientists taken special care to go into this question?
§ Sir T. DugdaleI will certainly draw the attention of my technical advisers to this point. I am advised that it is not considered that there is any danger.
§ Mr. Thornton-KemsleyWill my right hon. and gallant Friend see that, where-ever possible, wheat is imported into this country whole, so that we may enjoy the benefits of its by-products, instead of being imported as flour?
§ Sir T. DugdaleThat is another question.