§ 10. Mr. Hurdasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what representations have now been made to Argentina pressing for more effective precautions to prevent foot-and-mouth disease reaching Great Britain in chilled and frozen meat; and if more satisfactory undertakings for the future have now been given.
§ Mr. John HareI am glad to have this opportunity of assuring my hon. Friend that the remarks I made in the House on 5th March have been drawn to the attention of the Argentine Government. I made it clear then what very great importance I attach to this matter, and I am sure that the Argentine Government are as anxious as we are ourselves to maintain steady progress toward the effective control of the disease. Through my veterinary officers stationed in Buenos Aires, we are in constant touch with the Argentine authorities on precautions designed to prevent infected carcases reaching Great Britain.
§ Mr. HurdWill my right hon. Friend take note that the action which has at last been taken will be very warmly and widely welcomed, and will he keep the House informed of the progress he is able to make in seeing that these precautions against bringing in foot-and-mouth disease through South American meat are made more effective with the co-operation of the Argentine authorities?
§ Mr. HareI am grateful to my hon. Friend. I place great importance on this matter, and I will certainly keep the House informed.