§ 8. Mr. Hurdasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, in view of the progress being made with the attested herds scheme in Great Britain with the prospect that the whole country will be clear of bovine tuberculosis by 1961, what consultations he is having with the Irish authorities to ensure a supply of accredited Irish stock cattle that can be taken directly into attested herds in Great Britain.
§ Mr. John HareThe authorities of the Irish Republic have throughout been kept informed of the progress of our attested herd scheme and they are well aware of the problems arising as the scheme approaches its final stage. Discussions are in progress with them about the future supply of store cattle, but I am not in a position to say more than this at the moment. I wish to assure my hon. Friend that I fully appreciate the importance of this matter.
§ Mr. HurdMay we take it that my right hon. Friend is taking a personal interest in this problem, because he may well be faced with a position in which we may have an area clear of bovine tuberculosis here, and, although we still want Irish cattle, they cannot qualify to come in? Would not it be to the advantage of both countries if we could make mutually satisfactory arrangements as soon as possible?
§ Mr. HareI can assure my hon. Friend of my concern in this matter, and I am giving it my very close personal attention.