HC Deb 24 March 1958 vol 585 c9
15. Mr. Peyton

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he is satisfied that adequate steps are taken to decontaminate all personnel engaged in the slaughter of cattle in herds infected with foot-and-mouth disease; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Godber

Yes, Sir. My right hon. Friend has no evidence of any spread of infection by slaughtermen.

Mr. Peyton

Is my hon. Friend aware of the great satisfaction caused by the trouble that he and his noble Friend went to over this matter in a recent serious outbreak? I certainly have no wish to make any unfair criticisms, because I know how difficult the job is, but will he stress constantly how terribly important it is to take every possible precaution?

Mr. Godber

I am most grateful to my hon. Friend for his very kind comment. We attach the utmost importance to this matter. All the time we are seeking ways in which to tighten up our restrictions and I think that, in the main, our personnel do a very good job.