HC Deb 10 March 1955 vol 538 c617
55. Sir L. Plummer

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is satisfied that the new lapinised virus vaccine is effective against swine fever; whether it will be cheaper and give a longer period of immunity than crystal violet vaccine; and whether he will make a statement.

Mr. Nugent

Lapinised vaccine is still in the experimental stage at the Ministry's Veterinary Laboratory at Weybridge. Results so far obtained indicate that it will confer a high degree of protection against swine fever. It is cheaper to produce than crystal violet vaccine. The duration of effective immunity cannot yet be precisely determined but it is known to be more than one year. My right hon. Friend is anxious to take advantage of this highly promising development as soon as possible; but the experimental work must first be satisfactorily completed.