HC Deb 02 July 1953 vol 517 c571
22. Mr. Finlay

asked the Minister of Agriculture to what extent fowl pest has now abated; and when he will be able to lift the ban against fewer than 25 head of live poultry being sent to a public market.

Sir T. Dugdale

I am sorry to say that fowl pest has not abated. There have been 457 outbreaks since 1st January, 1953, compared with 498 in the whole of 1952. I cannot say when it will be possible to lift the ban on fewer than 25 head of store poultry being sent to market.

Mr. Finlay

Is my right hon. Friend aware that this ban operates partially on smallholders and will he consider, in individual areas where the position improves, relaxing it progressively?

Sir T. Dugdale

I am always ready to consider relaxing restrictions of this kind—I know they are irksome—but the whole point is to try to help the industry.