§ 30. Mr. Peartasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will appoint a working party to examine proposals to eradicate brucellosis.
§ The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Mr. James Scott-Hopkins)The problem of brucellosis in cattle is constantly under review within my Department and we are now examining the figures produced by a special survey in over 2,000 dairy herds. A free calf vaccination service started last May. Therefore I do not think it would be useful for my right hon. Friend to appoint a working party at the present time.
§ Mr. PeartIs not the hon. Gentleman aware that there is concern about brucellosis and that the veterinary profession would welcome the appointment of a working party? Further, will he consult the Ministry of Health about this, because there is a problem here which affects not only animals but human beings?
§ Mr. Scott-HopkinsI agree that this is a problem. That is why we had this special survey. As soon as the evaluation is completed, we will publish details.
§ Mr. PeartIf the veterinary profession makes representations to the Minister, will he sympathetically consider their point of view? There should be some form of legislation and there is still a need for action.
§ Mr. Scott-HopkinsIf the veterinary service does make representations, they will be sympathetically considered.