§ 8. Mr. Whitelawasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, as representing the Lord President of the Council, what progress has been made in research into methods of preventing losses amongst lambs from nematodirus disease.
§ Mr. John HareA large amount of research bearing directly and indirectly on the problem of nematodirus is proceeding all over the world. Fundamental work on the life history and epidemiology of the parasite, which is necessary before any effective system of control can be introduced, is in progress at several agricultural research institutes in this country and work on finding new anthelminthic substance is also being carried on by the pharmaceutical industry. It is as yet too early to assess the effect of all this work in reducing losses from nematodirus.
§ Mr. WhitelawMay I, in the first place, apologise to my right hon. Friend for asking him a Question which necessitated his mentioning so many unpronouncable names in reply? May I call his attention to the fact that this nematodirus disease is spreading very fast in the North of England? Would it not be most valuable, therefore, if the highest priority were given to research so that effective methods of prevention may be found before the disease becomes a menace on a national scale?
§ Mr. HareMy hon. Friend is quite right. This is an important disease among hill sheep. I shall certainly see that the scale of research being devoted to it is adequate.