HC Deb 11 February 1960 vol 617 cc648-50
34. Mr. Kimball

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if his attention has been drawn to the findings of his Weybridge laboratories that there is now a serious outbreak of hepatitis in Lincolnshire, Leicestershire and the Soke of Peterborough; and if, in view of its similarity to the American fox encephalitis, he is satisfied with the quarantine arrangements for all animals at the United States Air Force bases.

Mr. Godber

The greater part of the investigations into disease in foxes has been carried out by the Animal Health Trust, but one fox was the subject of a post-mortem examination at the Weybridge Laboratory. The cause of death appeared to be related to canine hepatitis, which I understand is not uncommon in this country.

There are no separate quarantine facilities for animals at United States Air Force bases in this country. Animals brought in by United States Air Force personnel are subject to exactly the same quarantine restrictions as any other animals entering the country.

Mr. Kimball

While none of us doubts the efficiency of my hon. Friend's arrangements at the regular American Air Force bases, would he look most carefully at the arrangements in the temporary camps which the Americans have for setting up rocket sites in the east Midlands to see whether there are proper facilities there?

Mr. Godber

I think that our arrangements are as watertight as they can be. If my hon. Friend has any evidence which he would like to put before me, I should naturally be happy to look into it. As far as I am aware, we do keep a very close watch on these points.

35. Mr. Kimball

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if, in view of the growing concern about the spread of hepatitis in dogs and foxes, he will make it a notifiable disease as in the case of ducks.

Mr. Godber

It would obviously not be practicable to make a disease among wild animals notifiable. As far as dogs are concerned, with the exception of rabies, my right hon. Friend has no responsibilities.

Mr. Kimball

Is my hon. Friend aware that the distressing thing about this disease is that a dog can have it, be cured, and still be a carrier of it?

Mr. Godber

Yes, Sir. I realise this could happen. It is a worrying point, but I think there is little that we can do as a Ministry in relation to it.