§ 23. Mr. H. Hyndasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what action he proposes to take to control the movement of cattle suffering from brucellosis and the prevent the spread of undulant fever by the milk they produce.
Mr. VaneOur line of attack on brucellosis abortus is by way of calf vaccination. More than 94 per cent. of milk sold by retail in England and Wales is heat treated and medical officers of health have power to control the disposal of infected or suspect milk. Movement controls beyond those laid down in the Epizootic Abortion Order, 1922, would not, I think, be practicable or useful at the present time.
§ Mr. HyndIs the Parliamentary Secretary aware that this vaccination does not prevent the infected cattle being sold? Will he consider, as an alternative method of dealing with this, the introduction of a simple one-Clause Bill to prohibit the sale of raw milk? If the Leader of the House will not introduce such a Bill will the Parliamentary Secretary support me if I introduce one?
Mr. VaneThe second part of the hon. Gentleman's supplementary question is for the Leader of the House rather than for me. With regard to the first part, the hon. Gentleman will notice that my right hon. Friend is replying to another Question on this subject later.