§ 6. Sir L. Ropnerasked the Minister of Agriculture the total amount paid in 1952 for compensation for stock slaughtered because of outbreaks of foot-and-mouth disease in England.
§ Sir T. DugdaleOne million, seven hundred and twenty-one thousand, eight hundred and seventy-one pounds.
§ Sir L. RopnerCan my right hon. Friend say how that compares with the previous year?
§ Sir T. DugdaleThe figure for 1952 was very high indeed. I have given the House the English figure for 1952. The figure for 1951 was £376,874. Up to 3rd July this year the figure is £57,000.
Mr. BrownCould the Minister say whether the committee of inquiry is nearing the end of its labours, as it is getting rather belated?
§ Sir T. DugdaleIt has almost finished taking evidence and will be visiting the Argentine, Norway and Sweden very shortly. Its report is expected to be ready by the end of the year.
§ Mr. Noel-BakerCan the right hon. Gentleman say how much we are spending on research into foot-and-mouth disease?
§ Sir T. DugdaleThat is a different question altogether.