§ 38. Mr. Mawbyasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he is satisfied that the amount now charged for post mortem on poultry will not deter small poultry keepers from using this service; and if he will make a statement.
Mr. VaneSince the fees for post-mortem examination of poultry at the Ministry's Laboratories were increased, the number of specimens submitted has fallen, but I cannot say how much of this fall is attributable to small poultry keepers. These fees were originally fixed in 1925 and had become almost nominal. Even at these new rates, the service will not yet be self-supporting but, as already announced, it is my right hon. Friend's intention to introduce full economic fees on 1st December, 1961.
§ Mr. MawbyWhile thanking my hon. Friend for that reply, may I ask him to take into account the fact that many eggs are produced by backyard poultry-keepers? Will not the charge for post-mortem examinations mean danger of a disease not being diagnosed because the owner may bury the evidence?
Mr. VaneI am aware of the dangers from disease, but it is in the interests of any poultry-keeper who suspects that one of his birds has died of disease to have a post-mortem examination carried out. There are many ways open to him. The veterinary profession in private practice is available. This does not seem to be a service which the State is justified in running at well below cost.